All Activity

Acumatica Summit 2026 is the flagship annual conference for the Acumatica ecosystem, bringing together customers, partners and product experts. This quick guide explains what the event is, what attendees typically learn and what to expect from the 2026 program. What Is the Acumatica Summit 2026? Acumatica Summits are annual conferences where customers, partners and industry experts gather to learn about Acumatica cloud ERP. They feature keynotes, breakout sessions, product updates, hands-on training and networking designed to help organizations improve processes and get more value from the platform. Acumatica Summit 2026 will cover product direction, new capabilities and practical guidance for implementing and optimizing Acumatica across departments. Expect keynote announcements, roadmap sessions, customer case studies, partner showcases and role-based breakouts for finance, operations, IT and developers, plus workshops on integrations, reporting, automation and emerging technologies. ProjectManager Will Be At Acumatica Summit 2026 ProjectManager integrates with Acumatica to connect ERP financial and operational data with powerful project planning, resource management and project portfolio management capabilities. This integration enables teams to plan, schedule and track work with greater visibility and control over resources, timelines and budgets. Plus, it’s included in Acumatica’s Professional Services edition. To learn more, visit ProjectManager’s booth #622 at the Acumatica Summit 2026! When Will the Acumatica Summit 2026 Take Place? Acumatica Summit 2026 will take place from January 25 to January 28, 2026, at the Seattle Convention Center in Seattle, Washington. The centrally located venue will host keynote sessions, breakout tracks, hands-on workshops and networking events across multiple days. Acumatica Summit 2026 Registration Costs and Pricing Registration for Acumatica Summit 2026 follows a tiered pricing structure based on registration timing and attendee type. Early registration typically offers discounted rates, while standard pricing applies closer to the event. Summit passes generally include access to sessions, meals, expo hall activities and official networking events. Early Bird Pass – $1,595, available for attendees who register before the early deadline. Standard Summit Pass – $1,895, applied after early bird registration closes. Group Registration Pricing – Discounted rates available for teams registering multiple attendees together. Partner and Sponsor Passes – Custom pricing or bundled passes based on sponsorship level. Complimentary or Sponsored Passes – Limited passes occasionally provided through participating partners or promotions. Important Acumatica Summit 2026 Dates These key dates help attendees plan travel, registration, sessions and networking opportunities throughout the Acumatica Summit 2026 experience. December 5, 2025 – Estimated early-bird registration deadline with discounted summit pricing. January 15, 2026 – Pre-summit “What to Know Before You Go” webinar for first-time and returning attendees. January 15, 2026 – Business intelligence and reporting webinar previewing analytics topics covered at the summit. January 24, 2026 – Hackathon kickoff focused on innovation, integrations and AI-driven Acumatica solutions. January 25, 2026 – Acumatica Summit 2026 officially begins at the Seattle Convention Center. January 25, 2026 – Opening keynote outlining product vision, roadmap direction and ecosystem strategy. January 25, 2026 – Evening welcome reception designed for partner and customer networking. January 26, 2026 – First full day of breakout sessions, hands-on training and role-based workshops. January 26, 2026 – Community events, including industry meetups and Women in Tech networking sessions. January 27, 2026 – Customer success stories, advanced product deep dives and partner solution showcases. January 27, 2026 – Celebration party featuring live entertainment and informal networking opportunities. January 28, 2026 – Final sessions, closing keynote and official conclusion of Acumatica Summit 2026. Who Should Attend the Acumatica Summit 2026? Acumatica Summit 2026 is designed for executives, finance leaders, operations managers, IT professionals, developers and ERP administrators. It delivers value to decision-makers evaluating cloud ERP, teams responsible for system optimization and professionals seeking practical guidance, peer insights and direct access to Acumatica experts. Manufacturing organizations benefit from sessions on production planning, inventory control, supply chain visibility and ERP-driven process optimization. Distribution and wholesale companies gain insights into demand forecasting, order management, logistics efficiency and scaling operations with cloud-based ERP tools. Construction and engineering firms learn how to manage job costing, project tracking, compliance and financial controls within complex, project-driven environments. Retail and e-commerce businesses explore omnichannel operations, inventory synchronization, customer data management and integrations that support growth and operational flexibility. Professional services firms benefit from guidance on resource planning, time tracking, billing automation and improving financial visibility across client-driven engagements. Technology and software companies gain value from sessions on API integrations, customization, automation and aligning ERP systems with product development workflows. Healthcare and life sciences organizations learn how to manage regulatory requirements, financial reporting, inventory traceability and operational efficiency using cloud ERP. Key Acumatica Summit Participants The Acumatica Summit brings together technology partners, solution providers and industry experts who extend the Acumatica ecosystem. These participants showcase integrations, best practices and complementary tools that help organizations maximize the value of their ERP investment. 1. ProjectManager/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ProjectManager-logo.png ProjectManager is a cloud-based project and work management platform that adds value to Acumatica by extending its ERP features into a robust project management software platform that allows teams across industries such as professional services, construction and manufacturing to manage their strategic initiatives, programs and portfolios. Some of its key features include: AI Project Management Tools Project budgeting and cost tracking Project scheduling and portfolio roadmapping Resource management Project portfolio management Project monitoring and reporting Workload balancing Project time tracking Online collaboration and document management See what SolarStone has to say about ProjectManager’s Acumatica integration. To learn more, visit ProjectManager’s booth #622! /wp-content/uploads/2025/10/solarstone-featured-image-600x338.jpg Our live demos will show you how to streamline operations for professional services, construction and manufacturing businesses: Track, manage and optimize projects within Acumatica for real-time insights and control Understand the financial impact of projects and make data-driven decisions Automate accounting and reporting tasks to save time and boost accuracy Check out our Acumatica Marketplace Listing for more details. 2. Amazon Amazon is a global e-commerce and cloud services leader that enables businesses to sell products online at massive scale through its marketplace and fulfillment ecosystem. Amazon adds value to Acumatica through native commerce connectors that synchronize orders, inventory, customers and financial data. This integration eliminates manual entry, improves fulfillment accuracy and gives businesses real-time ERP visibility into high-volume online sales activity. 3. Shopify Shopify is a leading e-commerce platform that allows businesses to create, manage and scale online stores across multiple digital sales channels. Shopify integrates with Acumatica to connect storefront activity with ERP financials and inventory. This enables accurate stock levels, faster order processing, unified customer data and streamlined fulfillment for growing omnichannel businesses. 4. BigCommerce BigCommerce is an enterprise-grade e-commerce platform designed for fast-growing and established businesses selling across digital channels. BigCommerce extends Acumatica by syncing orders, pricing, inventory and customer records in real time. This unified data flow supports scalable e-commerce operations while maintaining strong financial controls and operational visibility. 5. Avalara Avalara provides automated tax compliance solutions that simplify sales tax, VAT and transaction-based tax calculations for businesses worldwide. Avalara enhances Acumatica by embedding real-time tax calculation and compliance directly into ERP workflows. This reduces errors, supports multi-jurisdiction compliance, accelerates invoicing and lowers risk for finance teams managing complex tax obligations. 6. SPS Commerce SPS Commerce delivers cloud-based EDI and retail network solutions that connect suppliers, retailers and logistics partners. SPS Commerce adds value to Acumatica by automating EDI transactions and synchronizing orders, shipments and inventory data. This reduces manual processing, improves supply chain accuracy and strengthens trading partner relationships. 7. Tipalti Tipalti is a global payables automation platform that manages supplier onboarding, payments, tax compliance and reconciliation. Tipalti extends Acumatica’s financial capabilities by automating end-to-end accounts payable workflows. This helps organizations scale payment operations, ensure regulatory compliance, reduce manual workload and improve vendor experiences. 8. AvidXchange AvidXchange automates accounts payable invoice processing and electronic payments for mid-market organizations. AvidXchange integrates with Acumatica to digitize invoice capture, approvals and payments. This improves cash flow visibility, strengthens audit trails, reduces paper-based processes and accelerates financial close cycles. 9. Crestwood Associates Crestwood Associates provides consulting, implementation and customization services for organizations using Acumatica ERP. Crestwood Associates enhances Acumatica by delivering tailored implementations, integrations and process optimizations. Their expertise helps businesses reduce implementation risk, improve adoption and translate ERP capabilities into measurable operational improvements. 10. ClickLearn ClickLearn offers a digital adoption and training platform that captures business processes and creates guided learning content. ClickLearn integrates with Acumatica to automate user training and documentation. By generating step-by-step guides from real workflows, it accelerates ERP adoption, lowers training costs and reduces ongoing support requirements. ProjectManager is online software that helps teams organize their work no matter where they are or how they work. Get real-time data for better decision-making while connecting teams and fostering collaboration. Deliver products on time, within your budget and with the level of quality that your customers expect. Try ProjectManager for free today! The post Acumatica Summit 2026: Quick Guide appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Key Takeaways Retail business programs provide essential tools and strategies to thrive in today’s competitive retail environment. Key focus areas include inventory management, customer engagement, and effective marketing strategies, allowing businesses to streamline operations and understand market trends. Options range from certificate programs for specialized training to degree programs for comprehensive education in retail management. Online courses offer flexible learning opportunities for busy entrepreneurs, covering vital topics like e-commerce and digital marketing. Networking opportunities through these programs facilitate connections with industry experts and fellow entrepreneurs, promoting collaboration and guidance. Choosing accredited programs with a robust curriculum and flexible learning formats enhances the learning experience and supports business success. In today’s fast-paced retail environment, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. Retail business programs offer you the tools and strategies needed to thrive, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out. These programs cover everything from inventory management to customer engagement, helping you build a solid foundation for your business. With the right retail program, you can unlock new opportunities and streamline your operations. You’ll learn how to analyze market trends, enhance your marketing efforts, and improve overall customer satisfaction. Embracing these educational resources can be the game-changer your retail business needs to reach new heights. Overview of Retail Business Programs Retail business programs offer vital resources for small businesses, enhancing your ability to compete effectively in the marketplace. These programs focus on critical areas such as inventory management, customer engagement, and marketing strategies. By leveraging these tools, you can streamline operations, better understand market trends, and satisfy customer needs. Successful retail programs provide insights into inventory control techniques, helping you optimize stock levels and reduce overhead costs. Programs also prioritize customer engagement by teaching best practices for fostering relationships and building loyalty, key components for any successful storefront. Additionally, these programs often include training on digital marketing methods. You’ll learn how to harness online platforms to reach broader audiences and boost sales. With the right retail business program, you can gain a competitive edge, driving growth and ensuring sustainable success for your small business. Types of Retail Business Programs Various retail business programs exist to support your small business’s growth and efficiency. These programs encompass structured learning options suited for different needs and goals. Certificate Programs Certificate programs offer specialized training focused on specific aspects of retail management. These programs can cover topics like inventory control, customer service strategies, and sales techniques. Typically lasting a few months, certificate programs enhance your skills and provide practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to your storefront operations. Many institutions offer these programs online or in-person, making them accessible regardless of your location. Degree Programs Degree programs, such as an Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Retail Management or Business Administration, provide in-depth education on various retail functions. These programs equip you with comprehensive skills in areas such as finance, marketing, and human resources. With a longer time commitment, usually ranging from two to four years, degree programs prepare you for leadership roles within the retail industry. Obtaining a degree can strengthen your business acumen, making you better prepared to tackle challenges and seize opportunities. Online Courses Online courses deliver flexible learning tailored to busy small business owners. Topics can range from e-commerce strategies to digital marketing and customer engagement techniques. Online courses often allow you to learn at your own pace, fitting education seamlessly into your daily routine. Platforms offering these courses often include interactive elements, quizzes, and resources that further enhance your understanding of modern retail practices. Utilizing online courses can empower you to adapt to evolving market trends and improve overall performance for your business. Benefits of Retail Business Programs Retail business programs offer valuable advantages for small businesses, enhancing your ability to succeed in a competitive marketplace. These programs equip you with essential knowledge and resources, ensuring your storefront operates efficiently. Enhanced Knowledge and Skills Enhanced knowledge and skills form the foundation of effective retail management. You’ll gain insights into crucial areas such as inventory management, customer engagement, and marketing strategies. Programs tailor training to small business needs, enabling you to understand market trends and consumer behavior. You’ll learn effective techniques for managing stock levels, optimizing pricing, and creating marketing campaigns that resonate. With these skills, you can streamline operations and improve overall performance, ensuring your small business thrives. Networking Opportunities Networking opportunities frequently arise from retail business programs. You’ll connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry experts, and potential mentors, fostering relationships that can support your business. These connections often lead to collaborations, partnerships, and valuable advice tailored to the retail sector. By expanding your network, you increase your chances of discovering new avenues for growth, enhancing your business’s visibility in the marketplace. Key Features to Consider Choosing the right retail business program can greatly impact your storefront’s success. Consider the following key features that enhance your learning experience and business results. Curriculum Curriculum design plays a crucial role in equipping you with relevant skills. Look for programs with comprehensive courses covering inventory management, customer engagement, and marketing strategies tailored for small businesses. A strong curriculum includes hands-on projects, real-world case studies, and modules on emerging trends like e-commerce and digital marketing, ensuring you gain practical knowledge applicable to your retail environment. Accreditation Accreditation signifies program quality and reliability. Select programs recognized by industry standards or educational associations, as these credentials enhance your credibility and can positively influence potential customers and partners. Accredited programs often provide a well-structured educational path, leading to more effective learning outcomes and better preparation for the challenges of running a successful small business. Flexibility and Accessibility Flexibility is paramount for busy entrepreneurs. Opt for programs that offer various learning formats, such as online courses or evening classes, allowing you to balance education with your business responsibilities. Accessibility ensures you can study anytime, from anywhere, making it easier to integrate learning into your daily routine. Programs that accommodate your schedule can enhance your understanding, ultimately benefiting your storefront’s performance. Popular Retail Business Programs Several retail business programs cater to small business owners and their unique needs. These programs focus on crucial areas such as inventory management, customer engagement, and marketing strategies. Certificate Programs: These offer targeted training in retail aspects like inventory control and customer service best practices. Completing a certificate can enhance your skills and enable you to manage your storefront more effectively. Degree Programs: These comprehensive programs cover various topics, including finance, marketing, and operations. Pursuing a degree can prepare you for leadership roles in your small business or the broader retail landscape. Online Courses: Flexible online courses allow you to learn at your pace. Topics often include e-commerce strategies and digital marketing techniques crucial for reaching wider audiences and boosting sales. Workshops and Seminars: These short-term programs often feature industry experts. They provide hands-on training and insights that can help you implement new strategies in your retail environment immediately. Networking Events: Participating in networking events linked to retail programs can connect you with fellow entrepreneurs and industry professionals. These relationships can lead to valuable collaborations and mentorship opportunities that support your small business growth. Investing in any of these popular retail programs can provide you with the tools and insights needed to thrive in a competitive market, ensuring your storefront is well-positioned for success. Conclusion Embracing retail business programs can transform your entrepreneurial journey. By equipping you with vital skills and insights, these programs empower you to navigate the complexities of the retail landscape. Whether you choose certificate courses, degree programs, or online workshops, each option offers unique advantages tailored to your needs. As you explore these educational opportunities, remember that the right program can enhance your understanding of market dynamics and customer behavior. You’ll not only optimize operations but also build lasting relationships with your clientele. Investing in your education today paves the way for a successful and sustainable retail business tomorrow. Frequently Asked Questions What are retail business programs? Retail business programs are educational resources designed to equip entrepreneurs with essential skills and strategies for running successful retail operations. They cover areas such as inventory management, customer engagement, and effective marketing tactics. How can retail business programs benefit small businesses? These programs help small businesses gain a competitive edge by providing knowledge of market trends, improving customer satisfaction, and optimizing inventory. They also offer networking opportunities with industry professionals, fostering potential collaborations. What types of retail business programs are available? Available programs include certificate courses, degree programs, online courses, workshops, and seminars. Each is tailored to provide specific skills, ranging from e-commerce strategies to customer engagement techniques. Why is inventory management important in retail? Effective inventory management minimizes overhead costs and ensures that stock levels meet customer demand. Retail business programs teach techniques that help optimize stock control, thereby reducing waste and improving profitability. How do retail programs enhance customer engagement? Retail programs focus on best practices for building customer relationships and loyalty. They provide strategies to enhance customer interactions, ensuring businesses can create memorable experiences that encourage repeat visits. What features should I look for in a retail business program? When choosing a program, consider curriculum design, accreditation, and flexibility. A strong curriculum should include real-world projects, while accreditation enhances credibility. Flexibility in learning formats is crucial for busy entrepreneurs. Are online retail business programs effective? Yes, online retail business programs offer flexible learning that fits into busy schedules. They provide access to valuable content covering important topics like digital marketing and e-commerce at the participant’s convenience. Can networking opportunities arise from retail business programs? Absolutely! Retail business programs often include networking events that connect entrepreneurs with industry experts and peers. These relationships can lead to mentorship, collaboration, and new business opportunities. How do retail business programs help with marketing strategies? These programs teach businesses how to analyze market trends and implement effective marketing campaigns. Participants learn digital marketing techniques that can significantly broaden their audience reach and boost sales. What is the return on investment for retail business programs? Investing in retail business programs provides entrepreneurs with essential tools and insights, leading to improved business performance. The skills acquired can increase profitability, streamline operations, and position businesses for long-term success. Image Via Envato This article, "Maximize Success with Effective Retail Business Programs Strategies" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In today’s digital environment, boosting interaction on social media requires strategic creativity. You can implement engaging polls and surveys to gather feedback, or host interactive contests that encourage user-generated content. Behind-the-scenes glimpses can humanize your brand, whereas live Q&A sessions nurture direct connections. Furthermore, using visually appealing graphics can improve content memorability. These methods not just raise engagement but also build community. Explore how each tactic can be customized to resonate with your audience effectively. Key Takeaways Utilize engaging polls and surveys to gather feedback and opinions, fostering deeper connections with your audience. Host interactive contests and challenges to encourage user-generated content, increasing engagement and brand loyalty. Conduct live Q&A sessions to build trust and personal connections with your audience while gaining insights into their preferences. Emphasize creative visual content, as it enhances engagement and retention rates significantly compared to text-only posts. Incorporate data visualization techniques to bolster credibility and make complex information more relatable, encouraging content sharing. Engaging Polls and Surveys How can you effectively engage your audience on social media? One potent way is through engaging polls and surveys. These tools simplify sharing opinions and gathering feedback, making it easy for your followers to participate. Platforms like Instagram Stories and Facebook are ideal for posting fun engagement posts, as interactive content receives twice the engagement of static posts. By incorporating polls into your social media strategy, you can gain valuable insights into audience preferences, such as product interests or platform popularity. Additionally, consistent polling can lead to higher follower engagement; 78% of users are more likely to purchase after a positive interaction. In the end, using polls nurtures community, helping you connect deeply with your audience as you generate effective engagement post ideas. Interactive Contests and Challenges Interactive contests and challenges can greatly boost your social media engagement, especially when you design them with clear rules and enticing prizes. Data shows that brands running contests can see engagement rates rise by up to 34% compared to standard posts. By utilizing user-generated content, you encourage followers to share their experiences, broadening your reach and building community trust. Significantly, 70% of consumers are more likely to engage with brands that offer incentives for contest entries. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook excel in supporting visual content, making them ideal for challenges. Regularly hosting themed contests aligned with current trends not just keeps your audience engaged but also nurtures a sense of community and brand loyalty. Behind-the-Scenes Content Behind-the-scenes content is an effective way to humanize your brand, making it more relatable to your audience. By showcasing daily operations, you can provide insights into your team’s efforts and the processes behind your products or services. This transparency not only builds trust but furthermore encourages greater engagement, as followers appreciate seeing the authenticity behind the brand. Humanize Your Brand Creating authentic connections with your audience is essential for building a loyal customer base, and one effective way to achieve this is through behind-the-scenes content. By sharing glimpses into your team’s daily activities or the creative process, you can promote authenticity and transparency. This resonates with 64% of consumers who crave genuine interactions. Engaging content, like product development videos or team introductions, helps humanize your brand and creates stronger emotional connections. As 86% of consumers prefer authentic content, behind-the-scenes moments can greatly boost engagement. Regularly showcasing these insights not only improves customer trust but additionally enhances brand perception, leading to greater loyalty and advocacy among your audience, who appreciate your openness and relatability. Showcase Daily Operations Showcasing daily operations through behind-the-scenes content is an influential way to strengthen your brand’s connection with its audience. This type of content humanizes your brand, making it more relatable and encouraging followers to feel involved. By sharing glimpses of team meetings or product assembly, you reveal your brand’s authenticity, which can boost trust and loyalty among your audience. Studies show that behind-the-scenes posts can generate up to 50% more engagement compared to traditional promotional content. Moreover, showcasing your company culture can attract potential employees and clients who align with your values. Engaging followers through live videos or stories invites real-time interaction, allowing you to gather feedback and questions that deepen the connection. User-Generated Content Campaigns User-generated content (UGC) campaigns have become a crucial strategy for brands looking to improve their authenticity and trustworthiness in the eyes of consumers. A recent survey found that 79% of people say UGC greatly influences their purchasing decisions. By featuring UGC in your marketing, like GoPro does with customer videos, you can augment community involvement and brand loyalty. Encourage customers to share their experiences with a specific hashtag to nurture a sense of belonging and promote organic growth. Studies show that UGC campaigns can achieve up to 6.9 times higher engagement rates than traditional brand content. Running contests that invite users to submit content can stimulate participation, as 79% of consumers are more likely to engage with brands offering rewards for contributions. Live Q&A Sessions Live Q&A sessions are an effective way to build trust through direct interaction with your audience. By answering questions in real time, you not merely increase engagement but additionally share valuable insights that can improve your brand’s credibility. Promoting these sessions ahead of time can create excitement, resulting in higher attendance and participation from your followers. Build Trust Through Interaction When brands engage directly with their audience through Q&A sessions, they create an opportunity for real-time interaction that can greatly improve trust and transparency. This approach not only answers queries but likewise humanizes your brand. Here are three key benefits: Enhanced Trust: Studies show that 82% of consumers are more likely to trust a brand after participating in live interactions, making it essential for building credibility. Personal Connections: Showcasing team members during these sessions encourages a personal connection, which is fundamental for customer loyalty. Valuable Insights: Hosting live events allows you to gather insights into customer preferences and pain points, enabling you to tailor your offerings effectively. Increase Audience Engagement Engaging your audience through live Q&A sessions can greatly improve their connection with your brand, as these interactions provide a platform for direct communication. Live sessions allow for real-time engagement, letting your audience ask questions and receive immediate responses, which cultivates community and connection. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook make hosting AMAs or tutorials easy, greatly increasing viewer retention and participation. Research shows that 82% of audiences prefer live video from brands over traditional posts, emphasizing the format’s effectiveness. Furthermore, live sessions elevate brand authenticity, revealing the human side of your business. Real-Time Insight Sharing Utilizing live Q&A sessions for real-time insight sharing can greatly improve your brand’s communication with its audience. These interactive events allow you to address questions and concerns directly, cultivating community and trust. Here are three key benefits of hosting live Q&A sessions: Higher Engagement Rates: Participants feel valued and involved, increasing the likelihood of shares and comments. Enhanced Interaction Features: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer tools like comment moderation and interactive polls to boost audience participation. Structured Formats: Designating specific times for questions guarantees thorough responses, maintaining engagement throughout the session. Promoting the event in advance through emails and social media can also considerably increase attendance, leading to more lively interactions and connections with your audience. Creative Visual Content and Infographics Visual content, especially infographics, can greatly improve your social media engagement by making complex information more accessible and appealing. Studies show that creative visual content increases audience engagement by up to 94%. Infographics that tell a story boost retention rates, with audiences retaining 65% of visual information three days later, compared to just 10% of text. Using lively colors and compelling designs raises engagement by up to 80%, making your posts more eye-catching. Furthermore, posts with graphics are 650% more likely to engage users than text-only posts. Incorporating data visualization techniques bolsters credibility; 60% of users are more likely to share content with relevant visuals. Emphasizing these elements can notably uplift your social media strategy. Frequently Asked Questions How to Increase Interactions on Social Media? To increase interactions on social media, start by posting engaging content, like polls and quizzes, which can greatly boost participation. Consider hosting live Q&A sessions to allow real-time communication with your audience. Encourage user-generated content through contests that invite followers to share their experiences. Furthermore, share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your brand to nurture connections. Finally, post consistently at ideal times based on audience activity to keep engagement levels high. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5 5 5 Rule on social media suggests you share five pieces of engaging content for every five promotional posts. By balancing value with self-promotion, you keep your audience interested and engaged. This approach cultivates genuine relationships, as followers appreciate valuable information over constant ads. Following the 5 5 5 Rule can improve your engagement metrics, leading to increased visibility and organic growth on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. What Is the 50 30 20 Rule for Social Media? The 50 30 20 rule for social media divides your content strategy into three categories: 50% engaging and entertaining posts, 30% informative or educational content, and 20% promotional material. This balance helps keep your audience interested without overwhelming them with ads. By following this distribution, you can boost interaction, cultivate brand loyalty, and guarantee your posts are valuable. Adhering to this rule can optimize your overall engagement rates and improve your social media performance. What Is the 70/20/10 Rule in Social Media? The 70/20/10 rule in social media content strategy suggests that 70% of your posts should be original, valuable, and relevant to your audience. This encourages engagement and connection. Next, 20% should be curated content from other sources, adding value as you showcase your expertise. Finally, 10% focuses on promotional content aimed at driving sales. Conclusion Incorporating creative engagement strategies on social media can greatly improve interaction with your audience. By utilizing polls, contests, behind-the-scenes content, and live Q&A sessions, you cultivate a sense of community and loyalty among followers. Encouraging user-generated content and employing visually appealing graphics further captures attention and drives participation. These tactics not merely boost engagement rates but additionally create a more personal connection between your brand and its audience, in the end leading to greater success in your social media efforts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Creative Social Media Engagement Ideas to Boost Interaction" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The real estate data firm said the merger will support efforts to scale and plans to ramp up development of enterprise technology products. View the full article

The debate around llms.txt has become one of the most polarized topics in web optimization. Some treat llms.txt as foundational infrastructure, while many SEO veterans dismiss it as speculative theater. Platform tools flag missing llms.txt files as site issues, yet server logs show that AI crawlers rarely request them. Google even adopted it. Sort of. In December, the company added llms.txt files across many developer and documentation sites. The signal seemed clear: if the company behind the sitemap standard is implementing llms.txt, it likely matters. Except Google pulled it from its Search developer docs within 24 hours. Google’s John Mueller said the change came from a sitewide CMS update that many content teams didn’t realize was happening. When asked why the files still exist on other Google properties, Mueller said they aren’t “findable by default because they’re not at the top-level” and “it’s safe to assume they’re there for other purposes,” not discovery. The llms.txt research We wanted data, not debates. So we tracked llms.txt adoption across 10 sites in finance, B2B SaaS, ecommerce, insurance, and pet care — 90 days before implementation and 90 days after. We measured AI crawl frequency, traffic from ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Gemini, and what else these sites changed during the same window. The results: Two of the 10 sites saw AI traffic increases of 12.5% and 25%, but llms.txt wasn’t the cause. Eight sites saw no measurable change. One site declined by 19.7%. The 2 ‘success’ stories weren’t about the file The Neobank: 25% growth This digital banking platform implemented llms.txt early in Q3 2025. Ninety days later, AI traffic was up 25%. Here’s what else happened in that window: A PR campaign around its banking license, with coverage in major national publications. Product pages restructured with extractable comparison tables for interest rates, fees, and minimums. Twelve new FAQ pages optimized for extraction. A rebuilt resource center with new banking information and concepts. Technical SEO issues, like header structures, fixed. When a company gets Bloomberg coverage the same month it launches optimized content and fixes crawl errors, you can’t isolate the llms.txt as the growth driver. The B2B SaaS platform: 12.5% growth This workflow automation company saw traffic jump 12.5% two weeks after implementing llms.txt. Perfect timing. Case closed. Except… Three weeks earlier, the company published 27 downloadable AI templates covering project management frameworks, financial models, and workflow planners. Functional tools, not content marketing, drove the engagement behind the spike. Google organic traffic to the templates rose 18% during the same period and continued climbing throughout the 90 days we measured. Search engines and AI models surfaced the templates because they solved real problems and launched an entirely new site section — not because they were listed in an llms.txt file. The 8 sites where nothing happened after uploading llms.txt Eight sites saw no measurable change. One declined by 19.7%. The decline came from an insurance site that implemented llms.txt in early September. The drop likely had nothing to do with the file. The same pattern showed up across all traffic channels. Llms.txt neither prevented the decline nor created any advantage. The other seven sites — ecommerce (pet supplies, home goods, fashion), B2B SaaS (HR tech, marketing analytics), finance, and pet care — all documented their best existing content in llms.txt. That included product pages, case studies, API docs, and buying guides. Ninety days later, nothing changed. Traffic stayed flat. Crawl frequency was identical. The content was already indexed and discoverable, and the file didn’t alter that. Sites that launched new, functional content saw gains. Sites that documented existing content saw no gains. Why the disconnect? No major LLM provider has officially committed to parsing llms.txt. Not OpenAI. Not Anthropic. Not Google. Not Meta. Google’s Mueller put it plainly: “None of the AI services have said they’re using llms.txt, and you can tell when you look at your server logs that they don’t even check for it.” That’s the reality. The file exists. The advocacy exists. The adoption by platforms doesn’t show it (yet!). The token efficiency argument (and its limits) The strongest case for llms.txt is about efficiency. Markdown saves time and tokens when AI agents parse documentation. Clean structure instead of complex HTML with navigation, ads, and JavaScript. Vercel says 10% of their signups come from ChatGPT. Its llms.txt includes contextual API descriptions that help agents decide what to fetch. This matters — but almost exclusively for developer tools and API documentation. If your audience uses AI coding assistants like Cursor or GitHub Copilot to interact with your product, token efficiency improves integration. For ecommerce selling pet supplies, insurance explaining coverage, or B2B SaaS targeting nontechnical buyers, token efficiency doesn’t translate into traffic. llms.txt is a sitemap, not a strategy The most accurate comparison is a sitemap. Sitemaps are valuable infrastructure. They help search engines discover and index content more efficiently. But no one credits traffic growth to adding a sitemap. The sitemap documents what exists; the content drives discovery. Llms.txt works the same way. It may help AI models parse your site more efficiently if they choose to use it, but it doesn’t make your content more useful, authoritative, or likely to answer user queries. In our analysis, the sites that grew did so because they: Created functional assets like downloadable templates, comparison tables, and structured data. Earned external visibility through press and backlinks. Fixed technical barriers such as crawl and indexing issues. Published content optimized for extraction, including FAQs and structured comparisons. Llms.txt documented those efforts. It didn’t drive them. What actually works The two successful sites show what matters: Create functional, extractable assets. The SaaS platform built 27 downloadable templates that users could deploy immediately. AI models surfaced these because they solved real problems, not because they were listed in a markdown file. Structure content for extraction. The neobank rebuilt product pages with comparison tables with interest rates, fees, and account minimums. This is data AI models can pull directly into answers without interpretation. Fix technical barriers first. The neobank fixed crawl errors that had blocked content for months. If AI models can’t access your content, no amount of documentation helps. Earn external validation. Coverage from Bloomberg and other major publications drove referral traffic, branded searches, and likely influenced how AI models assess authority. Optimize for user intent. Both sites answered specific queries: “best project management templates” and “how do [brand] interest rates compare?” Models surface content that maps to what users are asking, not content that’s merely well documented. None of this requires llms.txt. All of it drives results. Should you implement an llms.txt file? If you’re a developer tool where AI coding assistants are a primary distribution channel, then yes — token efficiency matters. Your audience is already using agents to interact with documentation. For everyone else, treat llms.txt like a sitemap: useful infrastructure, not a growth lever. It’s good practice to have. It won’t hurt. But the hour spent implementing llms.txt is often better spent restructuring product pages with extractable data, publishing functional assets, fixing technical SEO issues, creating FAQ content, or earning press coverage. Those tactics have shown real ROI in AI discovery. Llms.txt hasn’t — at least not yet. The lesson isn’t that llms.txt is bad. It’s that we’re reaching for control in a system where the rules aren’t written yet. Llms.txt offers that comfort: something concrete, actionable, and familiar, shaped like the web standards we already know. But looking like infrastructure isn’t the same as functioning like infrastructure. Focus on what actually works: Create useful content. Structure it for extraction. Make it technically accessible. Earn external validation. Platforms and formats will change. The fundamentals won’t. View the full article

Make them second nature. By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

Make them second nature. By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. 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. Today's Bluetooth speakers have features that make them better than they were just a few years ago, from USB-C for universal fast charging, to hi-res audio playback, to serving as battery backup for other devices. The Beats Pill speaker has all these features and more, making it a great choice, and it has dropped in price to $99.95 (down from $149.95), matching the lowest price it has reached since its recent release, according to price-tracking tools. For less than a hundred dollars, this speaker is a steal. Beats Pill - Bluetooth Speaker and Portable Wireless Charger via USB-C - Up to 24 Hours Battery Life, IP67 Water Resistant, Apple & Android Compatible, Built-in Microphone – Campagne Gold $99.95 at Amazon $149.95 Save $50.00 Get Deal Get Deal $99.95 at Amazon $149.95 Save $50.00 I've been trying out the Beats Pill speaker since it came out in summer 2024, and it has everything I could want in a portable speaker: stereo sound when connected to another compatible speaker, multi-room mode to play the same music on multiple speakers, the Find My Device feature in case you misplace it during a rager, and Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range. Apple users will get the most out of the Pill, with seamless iOS compatibility for a smoother experience. (You can read about it in more detail on PCMag's "excellent" review), but this Beats speaker is not just for Apple users: Android users can also connect to it with a Bluetooth 5.3 connection, but it only supports AAC and SBC codecs, so there are no Android-friendly codec options that will make the audio really pop. When it comes to battery life, you can expect around 24 hours per charge, depending on your use, which is comparable to other speakers of its size. It has that classic, bright Beats sound signature, balanced yet bass-heavy. It is rated IP67 dust-proof and waterproof, so it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. The biggest downside is that there is no adjustable EQ within the app, but that's less important when it sounds so great out of the box. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $399.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Graphite) — $149.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Boosting team spirit is essential for a productive work environment, and engaging in fun games can greatly improve collaboration and camaraderie. Activities such as icebreakers, creative challenges, and competitive games create opportunities for team members to connect and communicate effectively. By incorporating these interactive experiences, you can cultivate a more motivated and cohesive workforce. Let’s explore ten effective games that can raise morale and strengthen relationships within your team. Key Takeaways Engage in Two Truths and a Lie to encourage personal storytelling and foster openness among team members. Organize a Virtual Scavenger Hunt, allowing team members to collaborate while finding items in their own spaces within a time limit. Host Office Olympics for friendly competition, enhancing teamwork and boosting morale through fun physical challenges. Implement the Emoji Story Challenge to promote creative storytelling, allowing team members to express ideas using only emojis. Conduct trivia contests to share knowledge and elevate team spirit, while also encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Icebreaker Games to Get Started How can icebreaker games improve team interactions? Icebreaker games are effective tools for nurturing communication and rapport among team members. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Human Bingo” encourage personal storytelling, allowing you to learn interesting facts about your coworkers. When you engage in these fun work games, you create a positive atmosphere that promotes collaboration and engagement right from the start. Research shows that using icebreakers can increase employee satisfaction and team cohesion, enhancing overall workplace morale. By incorporating games to play on Microsoft Teams with coworkers, you make everyone feel more comfortable, leading to an open environment where ideas and opinions are freely shared. Regularly using icebreaker games can greatly improve team dynamics by breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity among diverse team members. This approach eventually sets a strong foundation for effective teamwork and communication. Creative Team-Building Activities What makes creative team-building activities essential for improving workplace dynamics? These activities promote collaboration, improve problem-solving skills, and boost overall team cohesion. Engaging in innovative exercises allows you to think outside the box and strengthen interpersonal relationships. Here are some effective creative team-building activities: Activity Purpose Ideas as Building Blocks Develop solutions to fictional problems Use What You Have Create projects with limited supplies This is Better Than That Analyze scenarios and make strategic decisions Moreover, “Do the Math” encourages teamwork under pressure, whereas “Survival Scenario Planning” helps prioritize resources effectively. By participating in these activities, you not only improve your team’s creativity and resourcefulness but additionally cultivate a stronger, more collaborative work environment. Problem-Solving Challenges Building on the foundation of creative team-building activities, problem-solving challenges take collaboration to the next level by putting teams in scenarios where they must think critically and work together under pressure. These challenges improve critical thinking skills, encouraging teamwork and innovation that can lead to better performance and productivity. Engaging in structured problem-solving activities nurtures a sense of achievement among team members, promoting camaraderie and reinforcing group dynamics. Often, these challenges require teams to work creatively with limited resources, simulating real-world constraints that help develop strategic decision-making abilities. By participating in problem-solving challenges, employees strengthen their interpersonal skills, as effective communication and collaboration are crucial for successful outcomes. Incorporating fun problem-solving challenges into team-building activities can greatly reduce stress and increase overall morale, creating a more positive work environment. In this way, problem-solving challenges become an invaluable tool for improving workplace culture and performance. Fun Competitive Games Even though friendly competition might seem trivial, fun competitive games play a significant role in improving workplace dynamics and productivity. Activities like Office Olympics or Minute to Win It challenges not only entertain but also elevate communication and problem-solving skills. Engaging in these games promotes motivation and engagement among team members, often resulting in a boost in overall productivity, with studies showing up to a 30% increase post-activity. In addition, these experiences create lasting memories and strengthen interpersonal relationships, contributing to a more cohesive team environment. Incorporating competitive elements encourages goal-setting and achievement, making the work experience more enjoyable. Game Type Benefits Example Activity Office Olympics Improves teamwork, boosts morale Relay races Minute to Win It Elevates problem-solving skills Stack Attack challenge Trivia Contests Encourages knowledge sharing Themed trivia night Scavenger Hunts Promotes collaboration Office scavenger hunt Collaborative Projects for Teamwork Collaborative projects are vital for promoting teamwork, and they offer opportunities for creative problem-solving sessions, group brainstorming activities, and team idea sharing. By engaging in these activities, you not merely tap into diverse skill sets but additionally improve communication and trust among team members. Implementing these collaborative efforts regularly can lead to more innovative solutions and enhanced overall performance within your team. Creative Problem-Solving Sessions Creative problem-solving sessions are vital for nurturing teamwork and innovation within any organization. These collaborative projects allow team members to leverage their diverse skills and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions. Here are some key benefits: Improves communication and collaboration, boosting team performance by up to 25%. Promotes creativity and critical thinking, important for tackling complex challenges. Helps identify individual strengths, enabling effective delegation and improved productivity. Regular sessions can greatly increase employee morale and engagement. Contributes to higher retention rates and a positive workplace culture. Group Brainstorming Activities Group brainstorming activities can greatly improve teamwork and innovation within an organization. Engaging in collaborative projects allows your team to cultivate open communication, sharing diverse perspectives that enrich the idea pool. Research shows that teams participating in brainstorming sessions can experience a 21% increase in productivity, thanks to the synergy from collective efforts. Structured brainstorming can additionally help identify underlying issues within team dynamics, promoting a better comprehension of each member’s strengths. By regularly partaking in these activities, you not only boost team spirit but also strengthen interpersonal relationships, which contributes to higher employee morale and job satisfaction. In the end, these collaborative projects lead to innovative solutions and improved problem-solving skills among team members. Team Idea Sharing Engaging in team idea sharing through collaborative projects can markedly boost both creativity and productivity within your organization. Here are some key benefits to reflect on: Cultivates joint ownership of tasks, leading to improved team performance by up to 25%. Encourages diverse perspectives, generating unique solutions and enhancing project outcomes. Strengthens relationships among team members, creating a more cohesive work environment. Leverages individual strengths, resulting in a 21% increase in productivity when team members feel connected. Addresses underlying issues, improving dynamics and nurturing a positive workplace culture that supports morale. Energizing Office Games If you’re looking to improve productivity and team cohesion in the workplace, incorporating energizing office games can be a highly effective strategy. These games boost team morale, leading to a 21% increase in productivity when team members engage through shared experiences. Activities like Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday office items for quick, competitive fun, encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Incorporating energizers midway through long meetings helps reset focus and maintain high energy levels, improving information retention. Quick activities, such as office scavenger hunts, encourage teamwork and quick thinking, making work more enjoyable as well as promoting problem-solving skills. Engaging in these energizing games provides a stimulating break from routine tasks, allowing employees to recharge. As a result, they return to work with improved creativity and motivation, ultimately benefiting the entire team. Inclusive Virtual Activities When you think about inclusive virtual activities, consider how engaging icebreakers and creative remote team challenges can improve team cohesion. These activities not just allow everyone, regardless of their location or ability, to participate, but they additionally encourage collaboration and connection among team members. Utilizing platforms for fun games like virtual scavenger hunts or trivia can keep morale high and promote a sense of belonging within your team. Engaging Virtual Icebreakers How can you effectively break the ice in a virtual environment? Engaging virtual icebreakers can greatly improve team spirit, nurturing connections and boosting productivity. Here are some inclusive activities to take into account: Two Truths and a Lie: Share personal stories to promote openness. Guess That Baby: Team members submit baby photos for fun guessing. Emoji Story Challenge: Use emojis to tell a story and have others interpret it. Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Find specific items in your home within a time limit. Show and Tell: Share something meaningful from your workspace. These icebreakers not only set a positive tone for meetings but are also beneficial to a supportive work culture, improving team cohesion and employee morale. Creative Remote Team Challenges Creative remote team challenges can effectively strengthen team bonds and improve collaboration, even in a virtual environment. Activities like virtual scavenger hunts and online trivia games allow team members to engage in a relaxed setting, enhancing cohesion. Implementing virtual escape rooms or brainstorming sessions nurtures creativity and problem-solving skills, leading to a 21% productivity increase. Inclusive activities, such as “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Show and Tell,” encourage everyone’s participation and help build rapport by sharing personal insights. Utilizing digital platforms for these interactive games keeps remote teams engaged and connected, promoting a positive work culture that reduces feelings of isolation. Regularly incorporating these challenges boosts morale, job satisfaction, and can even decrease turnover rates by 36%. Outdoor Team Adventures Outdoor team adventures offer a variety of activities that can improve both physical fitness and workplace relationships. Participating in these challenges promotes collaboration and boosts problem-solving skills among team members. Here are some effective activities to take into account: Team hikes: Encourage fitness during exploration of nature. Obstacle courses: Cultivate teamwork through physical challenges. Outdoor scavenger hunts: Improve strategic planning and communication. Kayaking or canoeing: Develop trust and coordination on water. Camping retreats: Provide opportunities for informal networking. Engaging in these activities can greatly boost morale, with 79% of employees noting that outdoor adventures strengthen workplace relationships. Additionally, these experiences often lead to a 25% increase in performance, as they encourage communication in a relaxed environment. By participating in outdoor adventures, you can break down barriers between departments, nurturing a sense of community and improving overall team dynamics. Quick and Easy Games for Busy Teams After exploring outdoor team adventures, it’s important to recognize that not every team-building activity needs to take place outside or require extensive planning. Quick and easy games can effectively improve team spirit by providing invigorating breaks during busy work schedules. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “One-Word Story” are ideal, requiring minimal setup and completing in under 10 minutes. These fast-paced games not just boost morale but additionally enhance communication, leading to a 21% increase in productivity as team members connect and collaborate. Incorporating such activities into regular meetings helps maintain high energy levels and engagement, ensuring team bonding is a consistent practice. Utilizing lunchtime or brief gaps between meetings for these games encourages informal interactions, nurturing a positive work culture and stronger relationships among team members. Engaging Activities for Remote Teams How can remote teams stay engaged and connected in light of the physical distance? Implementing interactive activities can promote teamwork and camaraderie among team members. Here are some engaging options to contemplate: Virtual scavenger hunts: Teams race to find items from their homes, promoting quick thinking and collaboration. Icebreaker games: Try “Two Truths and a Lie” to encourage storytelling and personal connections. Video conferencing activities: Play “Pictionary” or virtual trivia to keep energy levels high and spark friendly competition. Brainstorming sessions: Use collaborative platforms to stimulate innovative thinking and improve creative problem-solving skills. Virtual coffee chats: Regular informal sessions can help build community and connection, allowing team members to bond. These activities not only maintain engagement but likewise promote a supportive work environment, ensuring that remote teams feel united regardless of the distance. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Some Games That Encourage Teamwork? To encourage teamwork, consider games like the Human Knot, where participants must untangle themselves without letting go of hands. Bridge Building tasks teams with creating a weight-bearing structure from limited materials, enhancing collaboration. Office Olympics promotes friendly competition through various challenges. A Scavenger Hunt combines physical and mental tasks, whereas Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday items for quick, engaging activities, cultivating teamwork and communication among participants. What Can You Do to Promote Team Spirit? To promote team spirit, you can organize regular team-building activities, such as workshops or casual gatherings, which encourage open communication and collaboration. Establishing an environment where everyone feels valued nurtures mutual respect. Consider implementing creative challenges or problem-solving tasks that require teamwork, enhancing relationships among team members. Recognizing achievements, both big and small, in addition boosts morale. What Are Some Workplace Games for Fun? You can engage in various workplace games to improve camaraderie and collaboration. Try “Two Truths and a Lie,” where you share personal facts to learn about colleagues. “Office Scavenger Hunts” promote teamwork as you search for items, as well as “Minute to Win It Challenges” offer quick, fun competitions. Human Bingo encourages networking, and Creative Team Jigsaw Puzzles boost problem-solving skills. Each game promotes interaction, communication, and a more connected work environment. Which Game Needs Team Spirit? The game that needs team spirit is the “Human Knot.” In this activity, participants stand in a circle, grab hands with others, and try to untangle themselves without letting go. It requires effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as team members must strategize together to succeed. This game not just encourages teamwork but additionally improves interpersonal relationships, making it crucial for building a cohesive group dynamic in any setting. Conclusion Incorporating these work games into your team’s routine can greatly improve collaboration and morale. From icebreakers that promote initial connections to problem-solving challenges that stimulate teamwork, each activity serves a distinct purpose. Competitive games can energize your workforce, whereas inclusive virtual options guarantee remote team members feel engaged. By selecting the right activities, you not only create a more cohesive environment but likewise lay the groundwork for improved productivity and communication within your team. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Fun Work Games to Boost Team Spirit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Boosting team spirit is essential for a productive work environment, and engaging in fun games can greatly improve collaboration and camaraderie. Activities such as icebreakers, creative challenges, and competitive games create opportunities for team members to connect and communicate effectively. By incorporating these interactive experiences, you can cultivate a more motivated and cohesive workforce. Let’s explore ten effective games that can raise morale and strengthen relationships within your team. Key Takeaways Engage in Two Truths and a Lie to encourage personal storytelling and foster openness among team members. Organize a Virtual Scavenger Hunt, allowing team members to collaborate while finding items in their own spaces within a time limit. Host Office Olympics for friendly competition, enhancing teamwork and boosting morale through fun physical challenges. Implement the Emoji Story Challenge to promote creative storytelling, allowing team members to express ideas using only emojis. Conduct trivia contests to share knowledge and elevate team spirit, while also encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Icebreaker Games to Get Started How can icebreaker games improve team interactions? Icebreaker games are effective tools for nurturing communication and rapport among team members. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Human Bingo” encourage personal storytelling, allowing you to learn interesting facts about your coworkers. When you engage in these fun work games, you create a positive atmosphere that promotes collaboration and engagement right from the start. Research shows that using icebreakers can increase employee satisfaction and team cohesion, enhancing overall workplace morale. By incorporating games to play on Microsoft Teams with coworkers, you make everyone feel more comfortable, leading to an open environment where ideas and opinions are freely shared. Regularly using icebreaker games can greatly improve team dynamics by breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity among diverse team members. This approach eventually sets a strong foundation for effective teamwork and communication. Creative Team-Building Activities What makes creative team-building activities essential for improving workplace dynamics? These activities promote collaboration, improve problem-solving skills, and boost overall team cohesion. Engaging in innovative exercises allows you to think outside the box and strengthen interpersonal relationships. Here are some effective creative team-building activities: Activity Purpose Ideas as Building Blocks Develop solutions to fictional problems Use What You Have Create projects with limited supplies This is Better Than That Analyze scenarios and make strategic decisions Moreover, “Do the Math” encourages teamwork under pressure, whereas “Survival Scenario Planning” helps prioritize resources effectively. By participating in these activities, you not only improve your team’s creativity and resourcefulness but additionally cultivate a stronger, more collaborative work environment. Problem-Solving Challenges Building on the foundation of creative team-building activities, problem-solving challenges take collaboration to the next level by putting teams in scenarios where they must think critically and work together under pressure. These challenges improve critical thinking skills, encouraging teamwork and innovation that can lead to better performance and productivity. Engaging in structured problem-solving activities nurtures a sense of achievement among team members, promoting camaraderie and reinforcing group dynamics. Often, these challenges require teams to work creatively with limited resources, simulating real-world constraints that help develop strategic decision-making abilities. By participating in problem-solving challenges, employees strengthen their interpersonal skills, as effective communication and collaboration are crucial for successful outcomes. Incorporating fun problem-solving challenges into team-building activities can greatly reduce stress and increase overall morale, creating a more positive work environment. In this way, problem-solving challenges become an invaluable tool for improving workplace culture and performance. Fun Competitive Games Even though friendly competition might seem trivial, fun competitive games play a significant role in improving workplace dynamics and productivity. Activities like Office Olympics or Minute to Win It challenges not only entertain but also elevate communication and problem-solving skills. Engaging in these games promotes motivation and engagement among team members, often resulting in a boost in overall productivity, with studies showing up to a 30% increase post-activity. In addition, these experiences create lasting memories and strengthen interpersonal relationships, contributing to a more cohesive team environment. Incorporating competitive elements encourages goal-setting and achievement, making the work experience more enjoyable. Game Type Benefits Example Activity Office Olympics Improves teamwork, boosts morale Relay races Minute to Win It Elevates problem-solving skills Stack Attack challenge Trivia Contests Encourages knowledge sharing Themed trivia night Scavenger Hunts Promotes collaboration Office scavenger hunt Collaborative Projects for Teamwork Collaborative projects are vital for promoting teamwork, and they offer opportunities for creative problem-solving sessions, group brainstorming activities, and team idea sharing. By engaging in these activities, you not merely tap into diverse skill sets but additionally improve communication and trust among team members. Implementing these collaborative efforts regularly can lead to more innovative solutions and enhanced overall performance within your team. Creative Problem-Solving Sessions Creative problem-solving sessions are vital for nurturing teamwork and innovation within any organization. These collaborative projects allow team members to leverage their diverse skills and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions. Here are some key benefits: Improves communication and collaboration, boosting team performance by up to 25%. Promotes creativity and critical thinking, important for tackling complex challenges. Helps identify individual strengths, enabling effective delegation and improved productivity. Regular sessions can greatly increase employee morale and engagement. Contributes to higher retention rates and a positive workplace culture. Group Brainstorming Activities Group brainstorming activities can greatly improve teamwork and innovation within an organization. Engaging in collaborative projects allows your team to cultivate open communication, sharing diverse perspectives that enrich the idea pool. Research shows that teams participating in brainstorming sessions can experience a 21% increase in productivity, thanks to the synergy from collective efforts. Structured brainstorming can additionally help identify underlying issues within team dynamics, promoting a better comprehension of each member’s strengths. By regularly partaking in these activities, you not only boost team spirit but also strengthen interpersonal relationships, which contributes to higher employee morale and job satisfaction. In the end, these collaborative projects lead to innovative solutions and improved problem-solving skills among team members. Team Idea Sharing Engaging in team idea sharing through collaborative projects can markedly boost both creativity and productivity within your organization. Here are some key benefits to reflect on: Cultivates joint ownership of tasks, leading to improved team performance by up to 25%. Encourages diverse perspectives, generating unique solutions and enhancing project outcomes. Strengthens relationships among team members, creating a more cohesive work environment. Leverages individual strengths, resulting in a 21% increase in productivity when team members feel connected. Addresses underlying issues, improving dynamics and nurturing a positive workplace culture that supports morale. Energizing Office Games If you’re looking to improve productivity and team cohesion in the workplace, incorporating energizing office games can be a highly effective strategy. These games boost team morale, leading to a 21% increase in productivity when team members engage through shared experiences. Activities like Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday office items for quick, competitive fun, encouraging friendly competition and collaboration. Incorporating energizers midway through long meetings helps reset focus and maintain high energy levels, improving information retention. Quick activities, such as office scavenger hunts, encourage teamwork and quick thinking, making work more enjoyable as well as promoting problem-solving skills. Engaging in these energizing games provides a stimulating break from routine tasks, allowing employees to recharge. As a result, they return to work with improved creativity and motivation, ultimately benefiting the entire team. Inclusive Virtual Activities When you think about inclusive virtual activities, consider how engaging icebreakers and creative remote team challenges can improve team cohesion. These activities not just allow everyone, regardless of their location or ability, to participate, but they additionally encourage collaboration and connection among team members. Utilizing platforms for fun games like virtual scavenger hunts or trivia can keep morale high and promote a sense of belonging within your team. Engaging Virtual Icebreakers How can you effectively break the ice in a virtual environment? Engaging virtual icebreakers can greatly improve team spirit, nurturing connections and boosting productivity. Here are some inclusive activities to take into account: Two Truths and a Lie: Share personal stories to promote openness. Guess That Baby: Team members submit baby photos for fun guessing. Emoji Story Challenge: Use emojis to tell a story and have others interpret it. Virtual Scavenger Hunt: Find specific items in your home within a time limit. Show and Tell: Share something meaningful from your workspace. These icebreakers not only set a positive tone for meetings but are also beneficial to a supportive work culture, improving team cohesion and employee morale. Creative Remote Team Challenges Creative remote team challenges can effectively strengthen team bonds and improve collaboration, even in a virtual environment. Activities like virtual scavenger hunts and online trivia games allow team members to engage in a relaxed setting, enhancing cohesion. Implementing virtual escape rooms or brainstorming sessions nurtures creativity and problem-solving skills, leading to a 21% productivity increase. Inclusive activities, such as “Two Truths and a Lie” or “Show and Tell,” encourage everyone’s participation and help build rapport by sharing personal insights. Utilizing digital platforms for these interactive games keeps remote teams engaged and connected, promoting a positive work culture that reduces feelings of isolation. Regularly incorporating these challenges boosts morale, job satisfaction, and can even decrease turnover rates by 36%. Outdoor Team Adventures Outdoor team adventures offer a variety of activities that can improve both physical fitness and workplace relationships. Participating in these challenges promotes collaboration and boosts problem-solving skills among team members. Here are some effective activities to take into account: Team hikes: Encourage fitness during exploration of nature. Obstacle courses: Cultivate teamwork through physical challenges. Outdoor scavenger hunts: Improve strategic planning and communication. Kayaking or canoeing: Develop trust and coordination on water. Camping retreats: Provide opportunities for informal networking. Engaging in these activities can greatly boost morale, with 79% of employees noting that outdoor adventures strengthen workplace relationships. Additionally, these experiences often lead to a 25% increase in performance, as they encourage communication in a relaxed environment. By participating in outdoor adventures, you can break down barriers between departments, nurturing a sense of community and improving overall team dynamics. Quick and Easy Games for Busy Teams After exploring outdoor team adventures, it’s important to recognize that not every team-building activity needs to take place outside or require extensive planning. Quick and easy games can effectively improve team spirit by providing invigorating breaks during busy work schedules. Activities like “Two Truths and a Lie” or “One-Word Story” are ideal, requiring minimal setup and completing in under 10 minutes. These fast-paced games not just boost morale but additionally enhance communication, leading to a 21% increase in productivity as team members connect and collaborate. Incorporating such activities into regular meetings helps maintain high energy levels and engagement, ensuring team bonding is a consistent practice. Utilizing lunchtime or brief gaps between meetings for these games encourages informal interactions, nurturing a positive work culture and stronger relationships among team members. Engaging Activities for Remote Teams How can remote teams stay engaged and connected in light of the physical distance? Implementing interactive activities can promote teamwork and camaraderie among team members. Here are some engaging options to contemplate: Virtual scavenger hunts: Teams race to find items from their homes, promoting quick thinking and collaboration. Icebreaker games: Try “Two Truths and a Lie” to encourage storytelling and personal connections. Video conferencing activities: Play “Pictionary” or virtual trivia to keep energy levels high and spark friendly competition. Brainstorming sessions: Use collaborative platforms to stimulate innovative thinking and improve creative problem-solving skills. Virtual coffee chats: Regular informal sessions can help build community and connection, allowing team members to bond. These activities not only maintain engagement but likewise promote a supportive work environment, ensuring that remote teams feel united regardless of the distance. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Some Games That Encourage Teamwork? To encourage teamwork, consider games like the Human Knot, where participants must untangle themselves without letting go of hands. Bridge Building tasks teams with creating a weight-bearing structure from limited materials, enhancing collaboration. Office Olympics promotes friendly competition through various challenges. A Scavenger Hunt combines physical and mental tasks, whereas Minute to Win It challenges utilize everyday items for quick, engaging activities, cultivating teamwork and communication among participants. What Can You Do to Promote Team Spirit? To promote team spirit, you can organize regular team-building activities, such as workshops or casual gatherings, which encourage open communication and collaboration. Establishing an environment where everyone feels valued nurtures mutual respect. Consider implementing creative challenges or problem-solving tasks that require teamwork, enhancing relationships among team members. Recognizing achievements, both big and small, in addition boosts morale. What Are Some Workplace Games for Fun? You can engage in various workplace games to improve camaraderie and collaboration. Try “Two Truths and a Lie,” where you share personal facts to learn about colleagues. “Office Scavenger Hunts” promote teamwork as you search for items, as well as “Minute to Win It Challenges” offer quick, fun competitions. Human Bingo encourages networking, and Creative Team Jigsaw Puzzles boost problem-solving skills. Each game promotes interaction, communication, and a more connected work environment. Which Game Needs Team Spirit? The game that needs team spirit is the “Human Knot.” In this activity, participants stand in a circle, grab hands with others, and try to untangle themselves without letting go. It requires effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as team members must strategize together to succeed. This game not just encourages teamwork but additionally improves interpersonal relationships, making it crucial for building a cohesive group dynamic in any setting. Conclusion Incorporating these work games into your team’s routine can greatly improve collaboration and morale. From icebreakers that promote initial connections to problem-solving challenges that stimulate teamwork, each activity serves a distinct purpose. Competitive games can energize your workforce, whereas inclusive virtual options guarantee remote team members feel engaged. By selecting the right activities, you not only create a more cohesive environment but likewise lay the groundwork for improved productivity and communication within your team. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "10 Fun Work Games to Boost Team Spirit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

For years, leaders have been told that ”being true to themselves” and “ignoring what others think” represent the gold standard of effective leadership, a kind of moral and emotional north star. But in practice, this type of advice often gets leaders into trouble. For a vivid illustration, consider how two famous fictional (yet hyper-realistic) characters, namely Don Draper (Madmen) and Michael Scott (The Office) embody these two mantras. Draper clings to a rigid, unchanging identity, using “this is who I am” as armor to avoid confronting his insecurities, while Scott approaches management with unfiltered candor, oversharing, and acting on impulse. Both believe they are being true to themselves, so others should appreciate it, but in reality they are trapped behind a rigid self-protective shield that excuses poor judgment and blocks growth. The real problem arises not so much from being untrue to themselves, but rather, from mis-calibrating how they show up, mistaking self-expression for effectiveness. Leaders who are reduced to this kind of pattern routinely erode trust, exhaust their teams, and undermine their own influence while sincerely believing they are acting with genuineness and integrity. As psychological research shows, every leader carries internal narratives shaped by early experiences about how to stay safe, earn belonging, or manage uncertainty. These narratives result in behavioral patterns that were once adaptive. But over time, they harden into identity (“this is just who I am”) and limit leaders’ flexibility and versatility. Leaders are therefore presented with a difficult psychological choice, namely: (a) to resist pressures to conform, and act without consideration for what others think, but, in doing so, risk alienating or antagonizing others; or (b) to adjust their behavior to meet the situational demands—mostly, what other people want and need from them—but risk alienating . . . themselves. The question, then, is how leaders can skillfully navigate the intricate balance between their self-expression needs and their obligation to others. To this end, here are a few science-based recommendations to consider: Communicate with greater precision and empathy Leaders don’t struggle because they speak the truth, but because they speak it without intention, timing, or attunement. Balancing candor with empathy is the discipline of telling the truth in ways that preserve dignity, empathy, and trust. Here’s how: Pair honesty with intention. Before speaking hard truths, ask: “What impact do I want this message to have?” Clarifying intent helps you choose language that builds trust rather than simply offloading what’s on your mind. Think of it as an emotional aim: honesty without intention is like firing an arrow without checking what or who is behind the target. Slow the reflex. If you feel urgency to “just say it,” pause. Urgency often signals an activated trigger, not clarity. This is your mind’s equivalent of a car engine revving too hot; giving it a moment prevents you from speeding into the wrong lane. Use that pause to let adrenaline fall and cognition rise. Practice “empathetic accuracy.” Test your instincts by naming what others might feel, then adjust your delivery in service of effectiveness, not self-expression. Great communicators act like emotional cartographers, mapping the terrain before entering it so they know where the cliffs, rivers, and fragile bridges are. Regulate emotion before you express it Vulnerability builds trust only when it is regulated, purposeful, and contained. Grounded vulnerability allows leaders to be real without turning their teams into emotional shock absorbers or co-regulators. Here’s how: Share what is useful, not what is unfiltered. Vulnerability should serve others, not the leader’s emotional relief. Raw disclosure is not always courageous; sometimes it is simply an emotional data dump that burdens the listener. Useful vulnerability, by contrast, is like offering a compass: personal, yes, but handed over with the intent to orient others, not to lighten your own load. Do emotional processing upstream. Use peers, mentors, or therapists as your primary space, not your colleagues. This preserves your team’s psychological safety while still giving you the support you need. Upstream processing allows you to show up composed, thoughtful, and ready to metabolize complexity on behalf of others rather than through them. For example, employees often report feeling “emotionally hijacked” when leaders vent openly about board pressure or uncertainty, unsure whether they are being informed or enlisted as emotional support. Replace unloading with grounding. Before sharing, ask: “Is this helpful to them? Or helpful to me?” Grounding yourself first allows you to express vulnerability as perspective, not pressure. Think of grounding as fastening your oxygen mask before assisting others: when you regulate your own emotional state, your words become stabilizing rather than contagious. Leaders who ground themselves create a conversational climate where honesty feels safe instead of sharp. Balance identity with adaptability Many leaders confuse integrity with sameness. True reliability comes not from repeating the same behaviors, but from expressing the same values with greater responsiveness and emotional range. Here’s how: Redefine consistency. Anchor to values, not behaviors. Values stay largely steady; behaviors can evolve. When leaders treat consistency as performing the same behaviors in every situation, they confuse predictability with rigidity. True consistency comes from being reliably guided by the same principles even as contexts shift. Try 10% adjustments. Micro-flexibility builds confidence without threatening identity. A modest shift in tone, timing, or format can expand your influence far more than sweeping reinventions, demonstrating that authenticity and adaptability can coexist. Name what rigidity protects. When you feel resistant, ask: “What part of me feels endangered right now?” Identifying the fear beneath the resistance opens the door to more adaptive choices. This self-reflection keeps self-expression honest while ensuring that protective impulses do not override responsibilities to the people they lead. Demonstrate values with judgment, not dogma Strong values don’t require rigid postures. Moral maturity allows leaders to stand for what matters while remaining curious, connected, and oriented toward collective impact rather than personal righteousness. Here’s how: Distinguish values from validation. Ask: “Am I standing in a principle or hiding behind it?” This distinguishes conviction from ego. By interrogating whether a stance is truly principle-driven or simply self-affirming, leaders prevent rigid authenticity from becoming a shield for stubbornness. Expand the aperture of “right.” Seek nuance in situations that challenge your certainty. Curiosity reduces the need to treat disagreement as a moral referendum. By widening their interpretive frame, leaders move from defending their identity to understanding the system they are operating in. Prioritize impact over insistence. Sometimes the most ethical choice is the one that maintains relationships, not the one that wins the argument. Insisting on being right can satisfy the ego but damage the social fabric leaders rely on to get things done. In short, if you are interested in being a better leader who is true to her/himself, focus on being your best possible self rather than your unfiltered or uncensored self. Why? Because the less you care about your reputation, the more others will care—and not in a good way. Leadership is fundamentally relational, so leaders’ professional selves must be optimized to the needs of others. People don’t need leaders to share every inner thought but to provide clarity, stability, and a responsible, human presence. Effective leaders prioritize impact over self-expression and treat authenticity as an active, intentional process. By contrast, misguided self-expression creates friction that slows decisions, distorts information, and weakens execution, even in otherwise capable teams. The best leaders commit to continuous improvement and becoming more effective in their roles.​​ This demands self-awareness and emotional intelligence, recognizing what traits to emphasize or adjust to meet the moment’s demands. Instead of unfiltered self-expression, leaders engage in thoughtful self-presentation tailored to the collective needs of their teams and organizations. As a result, leaders’ professional reputation becomes a practiced skill of managing how to show up powerfully while staying true to core values, not a static identity to be discovered or defended at all costs.​ In summary, effective leadership is less about rigid self-identity and more about strategic self-curation aimed at adaptive effectiveness and relational impact. Leaders who understand this evolve beyond trapped patterns and refine themselves to lead with clarity, competence, and integrity. View the full article

Need for connectivity tends to grow the longer the flight, weakening the case for the budget airlineView the full article

A reader writes: My coworker – who is not my boss – is trying to micromanage my projects, and I am having difficulty responding effectively. About six months ago, I was appointed to a leadership position for a well-known nonprofit in my area of expertise. I’ve generally enjoyed the work and feel well-supported, with the exception of one coworker, Linda. Linda is about 10-15 years older than I am, though I have more professional expertise and public-facing engagement in this field. She is in a different department than I am, but she acts as though she thinks I report to her, instead of to my actual boss (who is also her boss) and she constantly wants updates on my projects. A few recent examples: • I spearheaded the launch of a new grant-making initiative this past fall. She wanted updates every week about the application process, the reviews, and the final selection, and then tried to go over my head to our supervisor to insist that a low-scoring proposal by a friend of hers gets leapfrogged to the top. • I’m starting a new educational series for my peers and she wants to know all the nitty-gritty details – not just dates and topics, but detailed talking points, what the run of show is like, what resources will be provided to attendees, etc. She’s also making suggestions that don’t make any sense for this audience. I wouldn’t expect her to know that because she doesn’t have this background training herself, but this is why I was hired! • With my manager’s blessing and letter of recommendation, I applied for and got into a fairly prestigious leadership program, which involves some travel and online webinar commitments. Linda was annoyed to see these out-of-office blocks on my calendar and expressed surprise that I hadn’t told her first. It’s not jealousy that she didn’t get in; she’s not even eligible because it’s only for holders of certain professional degrees, which she doesn’t have. • There’s a huge industry-wide conference every spring. I’ll be there for the first six days, and then leaving for another, smaller conference that’s more in my area of expertise. She expressed frustration that I didn’t tell her about my travel plans earlier. It didn’t even occur to me to clear my travel with anyone other than my supervisor and my direct team! I took this job in part because I was looking to escape a toxic manager at my previous job, and am really not excited about falling back into bad habits. I’ve told Linda both in email and in Teams calls that I appreciate her offers of support but I’ll let her know if and when I need help. But after the incidents above, which all happened within the last week, I think I need to be more forceful and direct. What is the best way for me to navigate this?. We are a mostly remote organization, so I can’t suggest we grab coffee to discuss it, unfortunately. You can read my answer to this letter at New York Magazine today. Head over there to read it. The post my coworker is trying to micromanage my work appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Amid ongoing supply chain disruptions, Oracle has unveiled a new solution designed to bolster retailer operations: Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration. This cloud-based platform promises to help businesses manage supplier relationships, enhance operational efficiency, and improve compliance—all critical elements in today’s unpredictable market. The introduction of this solution arrives at a time when small retailers face myriad challenges, from shifts in consumer demand to compliance with evolving regulations. Oracle’s latest offering addresses these concerns by providing actionable, data-driven insights that empower businesses to navigate supply chain complexities more effectively. The solution enhances operational oversight through improved forecast accuracy and timely alerts regarding potential supply chain disruptions. In a rapidly changing environment, retailers can now anticipate issues and engage suppliers proactively. For instance, if there is an impending change in demand or a regulatory shift that could impact inventory shipments, retailers can issue urgent notifications directly within the system. Such capabilities allow for a more responsive and agile operation, vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and protecting profit margins. As Paul Woodward, global vice president of Oracle Retail Products, remarked, “From natural disasters to shifting global trade conditions, retailers are in a constant battle to better balance their supply chains to meet customer expectations… This solution gives retailers the AI-and data-driven visibility and intelligence needed to navigate complex supply chain and vendor relationships.” A notable feature of the Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration is its integration with the Oracle Retail Merchandising Foundation Cloud Service. This integration streamlines the process for retailers, enabling them to collaborate effectively with suppliers. Retailers can assess production facilities and analyze valuable supplier data right from a unified portal. Such direct collaboration can help in making informed decisions, fostering more strategic and effective merchandising operations. Key benefits for small businesses utilizing Oracle’s new solution include: Enhanced Supplier Coordination: Retailers can better share critical information with suppliers, promoting transparency and effective collaboration. Sustainability and Compliance Focus: Retailers can collect and review sustainability certifications and compliance audits, aiding in high-standard operations while also addressing environmental and social governance (ESG) requirements. Streamlined Operations: By automating the creation and updating of product records, the solution simplifies data synchronization, thus reducing manual errors and workload. Centralized Data Sharing: A single portal allows for more straightforward communication and delegation of responsibilities among suppliers, boosting productivity and efficiency. For small business owners, these features provide a means to enhance their operational strategies. In an environment where every delay can lead to lost sales, the ability to anticipate problems and coordinate promptly could prove invaluable. However, while the benefits are compelling, challenges may arise during the integration of this new system, particularly for smaller retailers with limited resources. Transitioning to a cloud solution requires an initial investment and possibly a learning curve for staff. Business owners might also need to assess how responsive their supply bases can be to the technologies and processes implemented. Increased reliance on technology also raises questions about data security and privacy. Small business owners must ensure that their partner suppliers comply with the necessary standards to avoid potential disruptions. As Oracle showcases this solution at the NRF 2023 event in New York, small business owners have an opportunity to see its capabilities firsthand and explore how it might fit within their operational frameworks. With the right implementation, Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration could empower smaller retailers to respond more adeptly to today’s challenges, protecting margins and enhancing customer satisfaction. For more information, visit the original Oracle press release at Oracle. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Oracle Launches Cloud Solution to Revolutionize Retail Supply Chain Collaboration" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Amid ongoing supply chain disruptions, Oracle has unveiled a new solution designed to bolster retailer operations: Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration. This cloud-based platform promises to help businesses manage supplier relationships, enhance operational efficiency, and improve compliance—all critical elements in today’s unpredictable market. The introduction of this solution arrives at a time when small retailers face myriad challenges, from shifts in consumer demand to compliance with evolving regulations. Oracle’s latest offering addresses these concerns by providing actionable, data-driven insights that empower businesses to navigate supply chain complexities more effectively. The solution enhances operational oversight through improved forecast accuracy and timely alerts regarding potential supply chain disruptions. In a rapidly changing environment, retailers can now anticipate issues and engage suppliers proactively. For instance, if there is an impending change in demand or a regulatory shift that could impact inventory shipments, retailers can issue urgent notifications directly within the system. Such capabilities allow for a more responsive and agile operation, vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and protecting profit margins. As Paul Woodward, global vice president of Oracle Retail Products, remarked, “From natural disasters to shifting global trade conditions, retailers are in a constant battle to better balance their supply chains to meet customer expectations… This solution gives retailers the AI-and data-driven visibility and intelligence needed to navigate complex supply chain and vendor relationships.” A notable feature of the Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration is its integration with the Oracle Retail Merchandising Foundation Cloud Service. This integration streamlines the process for retailers, enabling them to collaborate effectively with suppliers. Retailers can assess production facilities and analyze valuable supplier data right from a unified portal. Such direct collaboration can help in making informed decisions, fostering more strategic and effective merchandising operations. Key benefits for small businesses utilizing Oracle’s new solution include: Enhanced Supplier Coordination: Retailers can better share critical information with suppliers, promoting transparency and effective collaboration. Sustainability and Compliance Focus: Retailers can collect and review sustainability certifications and compliance audits, aiding in high-standard operations while also addressing environmental and social governance (ESG) requirements. Streamlined Operations: By automating the creation and updating of product records, the solution simplifies data synchronization, thus reducing manual errors and workload. Centralized Data Sharing: A single portal allows for more straightforward communication and delegation of responsibilities among suppliers, boosting productivity and efficiency. For small business owners, these features provide a means to enhance their operational strategies. In an environment where every delay can lead to lost sales, the ability to anticipate problems and coordinate promptly could prove invaluable. However, while the benefits are compelling, challenges may arise during the integration of this new system, particularly for smaller retailers with limited resources. Transitioning to a cloud solution requires an initial investment and possibly a learning curve for staff. Business owners might also need to assess how responsive their supply bases can be to the technologies and processes implemented. Increased reliance on technology also raises questions about data security and privacy. Small business owners must ensure that their partner suppliers comply with the necessary standards to avoid potential disruptions. As Oracle showcases this solution at the NRF 2023 event in New York, small business owners have an opportunity to see its capabilities firsthand and explore how it might fit within their operational frameworks. With the right implementation, Oracle Retail Supply Chain Collaboration could empower smaller retailers to respond more adeptly to today’s challenges, protecting margins and enhancing customer satisfaction. For more information, visit the original Oracle press release at Oracle. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Oracle Launches Cloud Solution to Revolutionize Retail Supply Chain Collaboration" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Balancing gut feelings with hard data isn’t a soft skill. It’s a strategic advantage. In an era where AI, automation, and ubiquitous dashboards flood us with metrics, it’s tempting to believe that better spreadsheets alone will yield better decisions. But our most consequential choices rarely emerge from a cell in column D. They arise from an ongoing negotiation between intuition and rational analysis. The paradox is this: as technology becomes more sophisticated at processing information, the human capacity to notice what matters—the intangible signals of opportunity or risk—becomes more valuable. Yet most organizations force a false choice. We either romanticize intuition (“I just know this investment is a winner”) or we bury it under rationalizations (“The model says no”). A healthier—and more innovative—approach is to design for both. The Science Behind the Marriage of Modes Recent research reveals something counterintuitive. According to a Science Direct article about entrepreneurs’ decision making, when entrepreneurs with domain expertise integrate AI-driven analysis with their intuitive insights, they achieve the most balanced outcomes, excelling simultaneously in novelty, depth, and innovation. A controlled study of 124 entrepreneurs found that while AI assistance increased the number of recognized opportunities and the depth of evaluation, it simultaneously reduced novelty and contextual sensitivity. But here’s the interesting thing: sector knowledge and intuitive judgment restored this creative dimension. The entrepreneurs who combined both sources of intelligence outperformed those relying on either alone. Separately, research into human-AI collaboration in decision-making found that expertise in the decision-making domain is a necessary condition for intuition to be effective. Organizations attempting to eliminate intuition in favor of pure analytics often find themselves unable to navigate ill-structured problems—you know, the kind that have no precedent and require human judgment. Conversely, intuition without analytical rigor falls prey to bias and incomplete information. What neuroscience reveals is even more compelling. Research shows that leaders who cultivate interoceptive awareness, which is your ability to sense and interpret internal bodily signals, experience improved self-regulation and more grounded decision-making. A study published in NeuroImage found that individuals with higher interoceptive awareness showed increased activation in the insular cortex during decision-making tasks, suggesting a direct link between bodily awareness and cognitive processes. In other words, learning to read your physical responses during deliberation literally changes how your brain processes information. Redesign How You Think One practical shift is to separate your phases of thinking. In the first phase, privilege expansive, intuitive work: walking meetings, whiteboard sessions, voice notes, even practices like yoga nidra (a guided relaxation technique) or non-sleep deep rest that loosen our grip on linear problem-solving. The job of this phase is not to decide; it’s to notice. What’s tugging at your attention? What feels unexpectedly alive or off? What pattern are you sensing before you can articulate it? This isn’t meditation or mysticism. It’s the recognition that your brain’s pattern-recognition systems, honed by years of experience in your domain, often detect signals faster than your conscious, analytical mind can process them. Honor that system. Later, in a distinct evaluative phase, invite rigor back in. We interrogate assumptions. We ask: What data supports this hunch? What contradicts it? Who would disagree, and on what grounds? Who benefits if this decision goes our way? Who bears the costs? Simply naming that we are in “intuitive mode” or “rational mode” reduces the unspoken power struggle between the two. It also prevents the common organizational mistake I see all the time: abandoning the intuitive insight midway through because the data is messy, or defending an intuitive pull long after contradicting evidence has emerged. Treat Hunches as Hypotheses The next step is to treat intuition as a hypothesis, not a verdict. A gut feeling about a hire, a product direction, or a market pivot can be translated into small, testable experiments. Pilot the idea with a narrow customer segment. Run an A/B test instead of a full rollout. Offer a time-bound consulting or project role before committing to a full-time leader. This shifts the conversation from “Should I trust my instinct?” to “What would I need to see to strengthen or challenge this intuition?” That’s rigor without self-betrayal. It’s also how learning accelerates. You’re not choosing between data and gut; you’re using data to train your gut. The Interoceptive Edge Of course, not all gut feelings are wisdom. Some are simply our biases wearing a confident costume. This is where building interoceptive awareness matters. Paying attention to how your body feels before and after major decisions can, over time, distinguish between expansive intuition and constricting fear. Research on interoceptive training demonstrates that after just one week of focused practice, participants showed enhanced interoceptive accuracy and significantly more rational decision-making. They also reported reductions in anxiety and somatic symptoms. The implication for leaders is clear: developing the capacity to read your internal signals isn’t indulgent—it’s foundational. Consider keeping a brief “intuition log”: What did I feel? What did I decide? How did it turn out? Are there patterns? You’re effectively training your inner instrument. Over time, you become more reliable at distinguishing between a genuine signal and noise. Counter Implicit Bias To counter cultural and implicit bias, organizations need deliberate friction in decision-making. Research on affinity bias (our tendency to favor people similar to us) reveals that this bias operates silently and persistently. One study found that male candidates are 1.5 times more likely to advance to screening than equally qualified women. More broadly, diverse teams outperform homogeneous ones on measures of innovation, problem-solving, and financial returns, yet affinity bias remains one of the most common barriers to building such teams. Designate someone in key meetings to challenge assumptions: How might affinity bias be shaping this decision? If this candidate or idea looked nothing like our past successes, would we still be excited? Would we hire or promote this person if they came from a different background? If this market opportunity came from a woman rather than a man proposing it, would we fund it? Pairing intuitive pulls with structured dissent helps ensure we’re not just re-inscribing “this is how we do things around here.” It also reveals when our intuition is actually convenience masquerading as wisdom. The “Both/And” Decision Framework Ultimately, the goal is a “both/and” review of major decisions. On one side of the page: data, constraints, risks, what the models say. On the other: gut feel, emotional tone, bodily cues, pattern recognition from experience, what feels alive. Include the assumptions that underlie each. Include the people who would gain and lose with each choice. The closing question is simple: Given both columns, what is the smallest, most reversible next step? Make It Visible When leaders narrate this process out loud—”Here’s what my intuition is telling me, here’s what the data says, and here’s how I’m reconciling them”—then they normalize a culture where neither spreadsheets nor gut checks are taboo. This transparency also models the kind of thinking that develops over time. Junior leaders see that confidence isn’t about certainty; it’s about integrating multiple sources of information and taking action despite genuine uncertainty. In the imagination era, where ideas are our true currency and markets move faster than data can track the shifts, the organizations that thrive won’t be those that worship logic or intuition alone. They’ll be those that have the courage and discipline to let them dance. View the full article

The smaller firm gets a say, so decide what you want. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

The smaller firm gets a say, so decide what you want. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

Curving walls of clay brick and the dappled light of a forest canopy make up the design of the 2026 Serpentine Pavilion, the annual architectural installation that has become one of the field’s most prestigious commissions. This year’s pavilion is being designed by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo of LANZA atelier, a Mexico City-based architecture studio. An annual installation outside the Serpentine art gallery in London’s Kensington Park that is freely open to the public from June through October, the Serpentine Pavilion is high-brow design that’s unusually accessible. Isabel AbascalAlessandro Arienzo Hitting the premise on the nose, LANZA atelier’s design was inspired by a common English architectural feature known as a “serpentine” or a “crinkle-crankle” that uses a gently curving line of bricks to form a decorative wall. For the Serpentine Pavilion, the architects lined one side of the structure with this serpentine wall, built just a single brick wide. An architectural trick, the wall’s curves provide stability through lateral support, making it need fewer bricks than if the wall were straight. Inside, the pavilion evokes the trees of the surrounding park with a series of brick columns—also a single brick wide—supporting a semi-transparent roof. Bricks also make up the floor surface, making the interior a thoroughly earthy experience. This single material’s dominance is only broken by its white-painted metal frame lattice roof, which bounces light into the space. Its curvaceous form creates niches within the pavilion while also forming portals to the park and to the Serpentine gallery nearby. The Serpentine Pavilion has been an architectural event for 25 years, serving as both a showcase and a creative outlet for emerging architects and artists. One of the highest-profile commissions in the field, the Serpentine Pavilion has been designed by an A-list of designers since its first iteration, including Pritzker Prize–winning architects Zaha Hadid, Rem Koolhaas, Peter Zumthor, and Diébédo Francis Kéré, and artists Ai Weiwei, Theaster Gates, and Olafur Eliasson. The Serpentine Pavilion is a global stage for LANZA atelier, a small office founded in 2015. The firm’s built works include several private homes, a children’s community center, and minimal yet elegant public bathroom. The 2026 Serpentine Pavilion will open to the public June 6. View the full article

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Tuesday morning that banks should focus on the sweeping deregulation the administration has enacted as the industry pushes back on President The President's proposed 10% credit card interest rate cap. View the full article

Greenland may be at the center of international affairs, but the crypto markets are in the red to kick off the holiday-shortened week. Tuesday morning, Bitcoin was trading at around $91,000, which was down around 4.5% over the past five days. It had been trading around $95,000, but took a tumble late Sunday evening, suddenly falling to less than $93,000, and trended downward early Tuesday. Ethereum, or ETH, followed a similar trajectory: ETH values are down almost 8% over the past five days, and are currently trading just north of $3,000. XRP did the same and, as of Tuesday morning, is down roughly 7%. In all, the crypto market is down more than 3% since Monday, per the CoinDesk 20, a crypto market index. Other markets are also seeing a slight downturn, though not as large as crypto. The S&P 500, for example, was down almost 1.5% as Tuesday’s trading commenced. As for the catalyst? Geopolitical tensions appear to be at the center of things, with President The President issuing threats of new tariffs on European countries over the weekend. That threat comes in response to The President’s desire to acquire Greenland from Denmark, which Denmark, and the rest of Europe, have balked at. Specifically, The President threatened new 10% tariffs on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Those tariffs would commence on February 1. The President also said the tariffs would rise to 25% at the beginning of June if Denmark does not agree to negotiate some sort of transfer of Greenland to the U.S. European Union leaders responded Tuesday morning as the back-and-forth continues. “The European Union and the United States have agreed to a trade deal last July,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. “And in politics as in business, a deal is a deal. And when friends shake hands, it must mean something.” It’s likely that as long as the testy situation continues, crypto and other markets could experience volatility. View the full article

At the end of last year, we put a call out to the Freelancers Union community, asking our members for their favorite accomplishments of 2025. It didn't necessarily have to be the "biggest" or "best" accomplishment — though it certainly could be — but whatever their favorite accomplishment was. Read on below for these achievements shared by our members; hopefully their proudest moments of the year will inspire you to celebrate of your own, and consider what you want to achieve in 2026. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 was finally turning twenty years of research into something tangible. I've spent my career exploring how health (mental, physical, chronic conditions, life circumstances) shapes creative work. This year I built a framework and assessment tool that helps artists, writers, and makers understand those patterns in their own practice. I'm rebranding it for 2026 to serve both individual creatives and creative teams in businesses. It's terrifying to launch something so personal, but also exciting. I also wrote what I've been calling my "Mary Poppins letter" about being a 45-year-old multidisciplinary freelancer who doesn't fit neatly into job categories. Watching it resonate with so many others reminded me that the weird, winding career paths are often the richest ones." - Kathryn Vercillo "I wrote a short comedy which the cast had fun reading. (I think this one is actually funny.)" - Linda Rogers, Playwright "While I think this was a challenging year for myself and many freelancers in video and photography production, there are still reasons to celebrate. Some of my highlights from 2025 include: (13) new clients, the return of some previous clients, a 3-day cycling shoot in the SF Bay Area for Modern Adventure, being interviewed on The Great Big Photography World Podcast, and another year of getting to do what I love!" - Jay Watson, photographer, San Francisco, CA "For the past eight years, I have worked as a long-term freelance illustrator and animator for a client, producing weekly content in an established brand style. This year, I was invited to reimagine and evolve the brand's visual identity. After collaborative exploration, we successfully launched a new, distinctive aesthetic. Where we landed was unexpectedly weird, wonderful and all mine :) Six months later, this visual evolution—paired with a refreshed tone in copywriting—has significantly increased audience engagement. I'm grateful to have a client that trusts and respects my expertise and allows me the freedom to explore." - Craig Hansen "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is merely surviving with my mental health intact...This was a year of 'firsts' for me. Not only did I have my first ZERO income year where nearly every proposal was completely ghosted. My parked car was totaled in a swanky NYC garage. My shower leaked necessitating a full gut renovation of my bathroom... But my most high profile client, a commercial airline for whom I designed the identity system, is the subject of much controversy as a contractor for homeland security flying deportation charters for ICE(!)I wrote about it, spoke to Fast Company about it, and presented a lecture on design and ethics centered around it, which I am planning to take on tour in 2026. The fact that I am still here and standing upright is a testament to the resilience it requires to face the reality of existence in its entirety without rejecting the bad parts and dwelling only on the good ones." - Kim B. "Started the year feeling lost in my career, working a survival job as a nanny to make ends meet while I navigated a collapsing entertainment industry. Decided to go full-time as a freelancer, and over the course of this year have built up enough momentum to QUIT MY SURVIVAL JOB, YAY!!! I haven't pulled the trigger just yet (I'm targeting an early January end date), but even just knowing that the transition is in progress and I'm just waiting on my first big retainer client check to clear before I give notice is a huge win in and of itself. I'm also proud of all the work I've done to educate myself about creative entrepreneurship. I've taken a bunch of classes and workshops through Freelancers Union (I think my favorite was probably "Business Entities for Creatives"), the Entertainment Community Fund, and more. I've also gotten set up with my local SBDC and have been working with a bunch of advisors to set myself up for success. I now have a Business License, EIN, and DBA/FBN (none of which I had back in January). I'm so glad I decided to ask for help! It has made all the difference in the world." - Carrie S. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is the publication of the Allcento Tarot deck that I created which is now being sold world-wide! Most tarot decks have 78 cards. However, the Alicento includes additional cards from some of the earliest tarot decks including all 7 virtues, zodiac cards, and other lesser known cards to create a unique, 100-card tarot illustrated in a bold, whimsical style that has gotten rave reviews from both tarot novices as well as expert esotericists. The cards are packed full of symbolism from various tarot traditions (including the Marseille, Minchiate, RWS, Thoth, and more). The more you know, the more you will see!" - Michael J. Auger "I'll share that my biggest 2025 accomplishment was winning my very first journalism award. It was quite a small award (First Place in the Specialty Articles: Green/Environmental category of the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest). But firsts are always notable, and it was validating as I continue to try to make a journalism career happen against the odds." - Elyse Hauser This year was my highest revenue earned, doubling last yearStarted saving for retirement again thanks to New Street AdvisorsTraveled to Alaska for the first time with my husband Completed a professional development goal to attend an industry specific conference once per quarter (Notary) Initiated full migration to Google WorkspacePromoted to President for our local Business Resource Group to support the Wisconsin Notary CommunitySurpassed 60 reviews on Google! Hired contractors to help scale my business (of course using the contract generator to help put contracts in place)Leased a second office And most importantly... seeing the growth I've had in my life both personally and professionally. -Stephanie Stevens-Khan View the full article

At the end of last year, we put a call out to the Freelancers Union community, asking our members for their favorite accomplishments of 2025. It didn't necessarily have to be the "biggest" or "best" accomplishment — though it certainly could be — but whatever their favorite accomplishment was. Read on below for these achievements shared by our members; hopefully their proudest moments of the year will inspire you to celebrate of your own, and consider what you want to achieve in 2026. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 was finally turning twenty years of research into something tangible. I've spent my career exploring how health (mental, physical, chronic conditions, life circumstances) shapes creative work. This year I built a framework and assessment tool that helps artists, writers, and makers understand those patterns in their own practice. I'm rebranding it for 2026 to serve both individual creatives and creative teams in businesses. It's terrifying to launch something so personal, but also exciting. I also wrote what I've been calling my "Mary Poppins letter" about being a 45-year-old multidisciplinary freelancer who doesn't fit neatly into job categories. Watching it resonate with so many others reminded me that the weird, winding career paths are often the richest ones." - Kathryn Vercillo "I wrote a short comedy which the cast had fun reading. (I think this one is actually funny.)" - Linda Rogers, Playwright "While I think this was a challenging year for myself and many freelancers in video and photography production, there are still reasons to celebrate. Some of my highlights from 2025 include: (13) new clients, the return of some previous clients, a 3-day cycling shoot in the SF Bay Area for Modern Adventure, being interviewed on The Great Big Photography World Podcast, and another year of getting to do what I love!" - Jay Watson, photographer, San Francisco, CA "For the past eight years, I have worked as a long-term freelance illustrator and animator for a client, producing weekly content in an established brand style. This year, I was invited to reimagine and evolve the brand's visual identity. After collaborative exploration, we successfully launched a new, distinctive aesthetic. Where we landed was unexpectedly weird, wonderful and all mine :) Six months later, this visual evolution—paired with a refreshed tone in copywriting—has significantly increased audience engagement. I'm grateful to have a client that trusts and respects my expertise and allows me the freedom to explore." - Craig Hansen "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is merely surviving with my mental health intact...This was a year of 'firsts' for me. Not only did I have my first ZERO income year where nearly every proposal was completely ghosted. My parked car was totaled in a swanky NYC garage. My shower leaked necessitating a full gut renovation of my bathroom... But my most high profile client, a commercial airline for whom I designed the identity system, is the subject of much controversy as a contractor for homeland security flying deportation charters for ICE(!)I wrote about it, spoke to Fast Company about it, and presented a lecture on design and ethics centered around it, which I am planning to take on tour in 2026. The fact that I am still here and standing upright is a testament to the resilience it requires to face the reality of existence in its entirety without rejecting the bad parts and dwelling only on the good ones." - Kim B. "Started the year feeling lost in my career, working a survival job as a nanny to make ends meet while I navigated a collapsing entertainment industry. Decided to go full-time as a freelancer, and over the course of this year have built up enough momentum to QUIT MY SURVIVAL JOB, YAY!!! I haven't pulled the trigger just yet (I'm targeting an early January end date), but even just knowing that the transition is in progress and I'm just waiting on my first big retainer client check to clear before I give notice is a huge win in and of itself. I'm also proud of all the work I've done to educate myself about creative entrepreneurship. I've taken a bunch of classes and workshops through Freelancers Union (I think my favorite was probably "Business Entities for Creatives"), the Entertainment Community Fund, and more. I've also gotten set up with my local SBDC and have been working with a bunch of advisors to set myself up for success. I now have a Business License, EIN, and DBA/FBN (none of which I had back in January). I'm so glad I decided to ask for help! It has made all the difference in the world." - Carrie S. "My favorite accomplishment of 2025 is the publication of the Allcento Tarot deck that I created which is now being sold world-wide! Most tarot decks have 78 cards. However, the Alicento includes additional cards from some of the earliest tarot decks including all 7 virtues, zodiac cards, and other lesser known cards to create a unique, 100-card tarot illustrated in a bold, whimsical style that has gotten rave reviews from both tarot novices as well as expert esotericists. The cards are packed full of symbolism from various tarot traditions (including the Marseille, Minchiate, RWS, Thoth, and more). The more you know, the more you will see!" - Michael J. Auger "I'll share that my biggest 2025 accomplishment was winning my very first journalism award. It was quite a small award (First Place in the Specialty Articles: Green/Environmental category of the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest). But firsts are always notable, and it was validating as I continue to try to make a journalism career happen against the odds." - Elyse Hauser This year was my highest revenue earned, doubling last yearStarted saving for retirement again thanks to New Street AdvisorsTraveled to Alaska for the first time with my husband Completed a professional development goal to attend an industry specific conference once per quarter (Notary) Initiated full migration to Google WorkspacePromoted to President for our local Business Resource Group to support the Wisconsin Notary CommunitySurpassed 60 reviews on Google! Hired contractors to help scale my business (of course using the contract generator to help put contracts in place)Leased a second office And most importantly... seeing the growth I've had in my life both personally and professionally. -Stephanie Stevens-Khan View the full article

The US is no longer predictable nor bound by any fundamental principles of actionView the full article

The Sundance Film Festival may be a little bittersweet this year. It will be familiar in some ways as it kicks off on Thursday in Park City, Utah. There will be stars, from Natalie Portman to Charli XCX, and breakout discoveries, tearjerkers, comedies, thrillers, oddities that defy categorization and maybe even a few future Oscar nominees. The pop ups and sponsors will be out in full force on Main Street. The lines to get into the 90 movies premiering across 10 days will be long and the volunteers will be endlessly helpful and cheery in subfreezing temperatures. But the country’s premier showcase for independent film is also in a time of profound transition after decades of relative stability. The festival is bidding farewell to its longtime home and forging forward without its founder, Robert Redford, who died in September. Next year, it must find its footing in another mountain town, Boulder, Colorado. Celebrating the legacy of Robert Redford and his creation It’s no surprise that legacy will be a through-line at this year’s final edition in Park City. There will be screenings of restored Sundance gems like “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Mysterious Skin,” “House Party” and “Humpday” as well as Redford’s first truly independent film, the 1969 sports drama “Downhill Racer.” Many will also pay tribute to Redford at the institute’s fundraising event, where honorees include Chloé Zhao, Ed Harris and Nia DaCosta. “Sundance has always been about showcasing and fostering independent movies in America. Without that, so many filmmakers wouldn’t have had the careers they have,” said “Mysterious Skin” filmmaker Gregg Araki. He first attended the festival in 1992 and has been back many times, including at the labs where Zhao was one of his students. Quite a few festival veterans are planning to make the trip, including “Navalny” filmmaker Daniel Roher. His first Sundance in 2022 might have been a bit unconventional (made fully remote at the last minute due to the pandemic) but ended on a high note with an Oscar. This year he’s back with two films, his narrative debut “Tuner,” and the world premiere of “The AI Doc: Or How I Became an Apocaloptimist,” which he co-directed with Charlie Tyrell. “We’re going through a weird moment in the world … There’s something that strikes me about an institution that has been evergreen, that seems so entrenched going through its own transition and rebirth,” Roher told The Associated Press. “I’m choosing to frame this year as a celebration of Sundance and the institute and a future that will ensure the festival goes on forever and ever and ever and stays the vital conduit for so many filmmakers that it has been.” Over the past four decades, countless careers have been shaped and boosted by the festival and the Institute. Three of this year’s presumed Oscar nominees — Paul Thomas Anderson, Ryan Coogler and Zhao — are among those the Institute supported early in their careers. Jay Duplass, who first came to Sundance in 2003 with his brother, Mark, with what he calls a “$3 film” said it was the place where his career was made. “I’d probably be a psychologist right now if it wasn’t for Sundance,” Duplass said. While he’s been to “probably 15 Sundances” since, it hasn’t lost its luster. In fact, when a programmer called him to tell him that his new film “See You When I See You” was selected, he cried. The film is based on a memoir in which a young comedy writer (Cooper Raiff) attempts to process the death of his sister (Kaitlyn Dever). It’s one of many films that finds humor amid grim subjects. Bold swings, comedies and Hollywood stars As always, the lineup is full of starry films as well, including Cathy Yan’s art world satire, “The Gallerist,” starring Portman, Jenna Ortega, Sterling K. Brown, Zach Galifianakis and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. The romantic drama “Carousel,” from Rachel Lambert, features Chris Pine and Jenny Slate as high school exes who rekindle their romance later in life. Araki is also bringing a new film, “I Want Your Sex,” in which Olivia Wilde plays a provocative artist (Araki described as a cross between Madonna and Robert Mapplethorpe) who takes on Cooper Hoffman as her younger muse. “It’s kind of a sex-positive love letter to Gen Z,” Araki said. “It’s a comedy. It has elements of mystery, thriller, murder — a little bit of ‘Sunset Boulevard’ … it’s fun, it’s colorful, it’s sexy. It’s a ride.” Wilde also steps behind the camera for “The Invite,” in which she stars alongside Seth Rogen as a couple whose marriage disintegrates over the course of an evening. Olivia Colman is a fisherwoman looking to make the perfect husband in “Wicker,” co-starring Alexander Skarsgård. Zoey Deutch plays a Midwestern bride-to-be seeking out her celebrity “free pass” (Jon Hamm) in the screwball comedy “Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass.” And Ethan Hawke and Russell Crowe lead the Depression-era crime drama “The Weight.” Pop star and noted cinephile Charli XCX will also be out and about, starring in the self-referential mockumentary “The Moment,” and appearing in “The Gallerist” and “I Want Your Sex” as well. Documentaries about celebrities and urgent subjects The 2026 festival features a robust lineup of documentaries too, which have a good track record of snagging eventual Oscar nominations and wins. There are a handful of films about famous faces, including basketball star Brittney Griner, Courtney Love, Salman Rushdie, Billie Jean King, Nelson Mandela and comedian Maria Bamford. Others delve into newsy subjects past and present, like “When A Witness Recants,” in which author Ta-Nehisi Coates revisits the case of the 1983 murder of a boy in his Baltimore middle school and learns the truth. “American Doctor” follows three professionals trying to help in Gaza. “Who Killed Alex Odeh” examines the 1985 assassination of a Palestinian American activist in Southern California. “Everybody To Kenmure Street” is about civil resistance to deportations in Glasgow in 2021. And “Silenced” tracks international human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson in her fight against the weaponization of defamation laws against victims of gender violence. And some don’t fit into any easy category, like “The History of Concrete” in which filmmaker John Wilson takes what he learned at a “how to sell a Hallmark movie” seminar and tries to apply it to a documentary on concrete. Saying goodbye to Main Street There might be a bit of wistfulness in the air too, as everyone takes stock of the last Sundance in Park City and tries to imagine what Boulder might hold. “It feels very special to be part of the last one in Park City,” Duplass said. “It’s just a super special place where, you know there are going to be movies there with giant stars and there’s also going to be some kids there who made movies for a few thousand dollars. And they’re all going to mix.” Araki, like Redford, knew long ago that the festival had outgrown Park City. It will be strange to no longer have its iconic locations like Egyptian Theatre and Eccles and The Ray anymore, but it’s also just a place. “The legacy and the tradition of Sundance will continue no matter where it is,” Araki said. For more coverage of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/sundance-film-festival —Lindsey Bahr, AP Film Writer View the full article