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The Irvine, California-based firm had a net loss of $40.7 million in the first quarter of 2025, a rebound from a net loss of $67.5 million in the previous period. View the full article

Bonhomie strained as US president muses about annexing his northern neighbour and his dislike of former Canadian PMView the full article

Washington dispatches Treasury secretary Scott Bessent to meet Chinese counterparts in SwitzerlandView the full article

The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership opportunities, events and more. There’s a seismic shift reshaping the labor market, with tremors across government and business. The latest signal of this transformation is the announcement of the Skills-First Workforce Initiative, a collaboration of top employers aimed at making the skills needed for jobs more transparent. It follows an announcement from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who on April 2nd unveiled his Master Plan for Career Education, furthering California’s efforts on skills-based education and hiring. That means candidates are encouraged to apply for roles based on their skills and previous experience, rather than what can be an arbitrary marker of capability: the college degree. The Skills-First Workforce Initiative and Newsom’s plan build on the momentum of many other states, like Colorado and Arkansas, and the federal government’s Chance to Compete Act, which makes skill-based hiring a requirement for federal agencies. All together, these initiatives and announcements send a clear message: The future of work has arrived. It’s a future that requires a new strategic imperative for workers and organizational leaders—the need for continuous upskilling. Skills are the new currency A growing number of companies and other state governments are already reaping the benefits of skills-based hiring by focusing on talent and potential rather than formal education. These leaders understand the potential of skills-based hiring to diversify the talent pool, foster innovation, and prepare organizations for the complexities of the future. According to the National Governors Association’s recent findings, over half of U.S. state governments have policies that encourage skill-based hiring, and states that adopted these policies have seen faster growth in job postings that don’t have degree requirements. With more organizations adopting skills-based hiring approaches, and even leveraging skill assessments to promote internally, skills are becoming the currency of the modern workforce. Adapting to this new era of skills requires an essential mindset and strategy shift for employees and organizations. Employees need to embrace a mindset of continuous upskilling, while organizations need to give their employees the time and resources to sharpen those new skills. For those at the cutting edge, this means starting the journey to becoming a skills-based organization. Become a skills-based organization A skills-based organization prioritizes the skills and capabilities of candidates and employees over their formal educational background. According to our research at Udemy, over 80% of employees report that their companies are beginning to consider implementing skills-based approaches (such as skills-based hiring), and 75% of organizations have already made changes to support this transition. The key steps to becoming a skills-based organization extend beyond hiring practices. To become skills-based organizations, companies need to create structured skill taxonomies. These are frameworks that identify and categorize the skills necessary for various roles within the organization. At Udemy, we are developing a skills taxonomy to map the competencies essential for different career paths, enabling targeted learning and development. Focusing on skills instead of traditional credentials like degrees or job titles has been proven to cultivate a workforce that is both more agile and diverse. According to Deloitte, nearly two-thirds of companies implementing skills-based strategies experience enhanced outcomes compared to those that don’t. Such organizations benefit from greater workforce flexibility, facilitating quick and adaptive reactions to unexpected market shifts. When skills development and acquisition are prioritized, employees become versatile, readily transitioning to new tasks or roles as needs arise, without being limited by predefined job titles or descriptions. This agility enables organizations to swiftly address emerging challenges by strategically reallocating talent where it’s most needed. AI supercharges the change These shifts—transitioning to a skills-based organization and adopting new mindsets—won’t happen overnight. However, AI can significantly accelerate the process, and it is becoming even more critical as companies feel pressure to reskill their workforces. We are entering an era where AI integrates into every facet of learning, simplifying, and accelerating skill acquisition. One way that AI can transform workplace training is by enabling adaptive learning systems that customize educational content based on learner progress. This personalized approach can enhance learning efficiency and engagement, allowing learners to access the knowledge they need more effectively. AI-enabled learning systems have the power to bridge gaps between current employee knowledge and needed skills, making them a dominant force in the future of education. Our role as leaders The movement towards a skills-based economy is not just a fleeting moment. It’s the dawn of a new era in workforce development. Announcements like Newsom’s signal a move toward a more equitable and efficient labor market. As leaders, we must champion these changes within our organizations, ensuring that we create an environment where continuous learning and skills development take center stage. By prioritizing skills over degrees, we’re opening doors to a broader range of individuals, enriching our organizations with diverse perspectives and experiences. Together, we can build a more inclusive and dynamic workforce equipped for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Hugo Sarrazin is CEO of Udemy. View the full article

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is urging small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania and West Virginia affected by the September 2024 drought to apply for federal disaster loans before the June 2, 2025 deadline. The assistance comes under a disaster declaration for Greene, Fayette, and Washington counties in Pennsylvania and Marshall, Monongalia, and Wetzel counties in West Virginia. Eligible applicants include small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture enterprises, and private nonprofits (PNPs) that experienced financial losses due to the drought that began on September 24, 2024. “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.” SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program provides working capital loans to help eligible entities cover financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred. The loans are available even to those that did not sustain physical damage. Loan funds may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills impacted by the disaster. However, the SBA notes that agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers—except for small aquaculture enterprises—are not eligible for this assistance under the current declaration. Loan amounts can reach up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for nonprofits. Terms can extend up to 30 years. No payments are required, and interest does not accrue until 12 months after the first disbursement. Loan terms and amounts are determined by the SBA based on each applicant’s financial circumstances. Applicants may apply online at sba.gov/disaster or contact the SBA’s Customer Service Center by phone at (800) 659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability can access telecommunications relay services by dialing 7-1-1. All completed loan applications must be submitted to the SBA no later than June 2, 2025. This article, "SBA Reminds Pennsylvania Small Businesses of Upcoming Deadline for Drought Relief Loans" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Loan providers saw more frequent use of verification tools as well as shortened turnaround times from preapproval to application submission, Lenderlogix said. View the full article

The family of a man killed in a 2021 road rage incident in Arizona used artificial intelligence to portray the victim delivering his own impact statement during his killer’s sentencing hearing, according to local news reports. Christopher Pelkey’s sister, brother-in-law, and their friend used AI technology to recreate his likeness, reportedly drawing from video clips recorded while he was alive. It is believed to be one of the first—if not the very first—instances of an AI-generated victim impact statement being used in court. “To Gabriel Horcasitas, the man who shot me: it is a shame we encountered each other that day in those circumstances,” the artificial 37-year-old said in the video. “In another life, we probably could’ve been friends. I believe in forgiveness and in God who forgives. I always have, and I still do.” Judge Todd Lang appreciated the video, according to Fox 10 News. Prosecutors requested a 9.5-year sentence for Horcasitas; ABC 15 reported that he was ultimately sentenced to more than a decade for manslaughter. The team putting together the video reportedly pulled from different tools in order to make it happen. “There’s no tool out there that you can just go and say, here’s a voice file. Here’s a picture. Please make it come to life. And this is what I wanted to say. So they’re scrounging and using this tool and that tool and this tool and this script and this audio and this image and trying to mash it all together and make a Frankenstein of love,” Stacey Wales said in an interview with Fox 10. View the full article

Key Takeaways Establish a strong presence on Fiverr by crafting an engaging profile that highlights your skills, experience, and unique selling points to attract potential clients.Choose service categories that align with your strengths and market demand, such as graphic design, writing, or digital marketing, to maximize your sales potential.Write compelling gig descriptions using relevant keywords and clear language to address customer needs and differentiate your services.Implement a strategic pricing model, including tiered options and discounts for repeat clients, to encourage customer loyalty and enhance your revenue.Promote your gigs through social media and actively engage in the Fiverr community to build credibility, visibility, and valuable connections.Maintain high-quality work and excellent customer service by addressing feedback promptly and ensuring timely communication, which fosters repeat business and referrals. Are you ready to turn your skills into cash? Selling on Fiverr offers a unique opportunity to showcase your talents and connect with clients worldwide. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, or digital marketer, this platform can help you reach your audience and build a thriving freelance business. Navigating Fiverr might seem daunting at first, but with the right strategies, you can stand out in a sea of competition. From crafting an eye-catching profile to optimizing your gigs for search, mastering the art of selling on Fiverr is easier than you think. Let’s dive into the essential steps that’ll set you up for success and help you start earning what you deserve. Understanding Fiverr Fiverr serves as a dynamic marketplace where freelancers can connect with potential clients. The platform facilitates sales of various services globally, positioning your small business to reach diverse audiences. What Is Fiverr? Fiverr’s a freelancing platform that allows you to offer services, termed “gigs,” starting at $5. It matches businesses with freelancers across numerous sectors, including graphic design, writing, and programming. As a seller, you define your sales goals by creating a compelling profile that highlights your skills, experience, and value proposition. Fiverr’s user-friendly interface simplifies the sales process, enabling you to focus on customer acquisition and relationship building. Types of Services to Offer Fiverr accommodates various service types. Consider these categories when crafting your offering: Graphic Design: Logo creation, branding, and illustration services attract numerous clients looking to enhance their visual identity. Writing and Translation: Content creation, blogging, and translation services generate consistent demand from businesses aiming to improve their sales outreach. Digital Marketing: Services like SEO optimization, social media management, and email campaigns help businesses drive lead generation and improve sales conversion. Video and Animation: Creating promotional videos or animations captures customer engagement and helps convey complex messages effectively. Programming and Tech: Website development, app creation, and tech support services appeal to businesses needing specialized technical expertise. Choosing the right services to offer on Fiverr boosts your sales performance. Identify your strengths and align them with market needs to ensure successful sales. Prioritize customer service and follow-ups to nurture relationships, maximizing sales potential through repeat business and referrals. Setting Up Your Fiverr Profile Setting up your Fiverr profile effectively boosts your visibility and attracts clients. Focus on key elements that enhance your sales strategy and conversion rates. Creating an Eye-Catching Profile Craft an engaging profile that highlights your skills and expertise. Use a high-resolution, professional profile picture that reflects your personality. Smile and maintain eye contact to build trust and rapport with potential clients. Your display name should be catchy yet professional, making it easy for clients to remember you. Important Profile Elements Complete every section of your profile thoroughly. Provide a detailed description that outlines your services, experience, and value proposition. Highlight your unique selling points and what differentiates you from other freelancers. Include specific examples of your previous work, emphasizing successful projects and client satisfaction. Be sure to use keywords relevant to your niche to improve search visibility. Additional elements, such as client testimonials and any certifications, can enhance credibility. Maintain a clear focus on customer needs and how your services fulfill them. Optimize your profile for customer engagement by staying responsive to inquiries and demonstrating your commitment to exceptional customer service. Prioritize completing your profile to maximize your sales potential through repeat business and referrals. Crafting Effective Gig Listings Successful gig listings attract clients and enhance sales potential on Fiverr. Focus on elements that captivate and inform buyers while clearly presenting your services. Writing Compelling Gig Descriptions Craft engaging gig descriptions that align with customer needs. Use concise language and highlight your unique value proposition. Include relevant keywords to improve visibility and make it easy for buyers to find your gig during their search process. Address potential objections by reassuring clients about your expertise and the quality of your work. Incorporate specific selling points, such as turnaround time, included revisions, and customer support, to enhance the appeal. Aim for clarity, stating exactly what buyers can expect and how your service fulfills their requirements. Selecting the Right Pricing Strategy Determine a pricing strategy that resonates with your target audience while ensuring profitability. Assess your competition’s pricing and consider your unique offerings. Utilize tiered pricing models to cater to different customer segments, such as providing basic, standard, and premium service options. Define clear deliverables for each price point, helping buyers understand the value they receive at each level. Implement discounts for repeat business or referrals to encourage customer loyalty and enhance your sales pipeline. Track the effectiveness of your pricing strategy through sales metrics and continually refine your approach based on customer feedback and market trends. Promoting Your Gigs Promoting your gigs effectively on Fiverr can significantly boost sales and drive customer engagement. Focusing on strategic outreach and community involvement builds a strong foundation for success. Utilizing Social Media Utilize social media platforms to showcase your Fiverr gigs and connect with potential clients. Share engaging content that highlights your services, success stories, and client testimonials. Create shareable posts that include visuals and direct links to your gigs. Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility and attract targeted audiences. Regularly interact with followers to build relationships, as this enhances customer acquisition and cultivates a loyal client base. Engaging in Fiverr Community Engage actively within the Fiverr community to enhance your visibility and credibility. Participate in forums and discussions, responding to queries and offering insights related to your services. Building relationships with other freelancers can also lead to referrals and collaborations, enhancing your sales pipeline. Attend community events, both online and offline, where networking opportunities abound. Regularly providing support and sharing success stories can foster goodwill, establishing you as a trusted resource in the Fiverr marketplace. Tips for Success on Fiverr Focus on maintaining high-quality work to ensure client satisfaction and promote repeat business. Delivering exceptional results fosters positive customer engagement and helps build a strong reputation. Prioritize attention to detail and meet or exceed expectations in every project. Keep communication clear and timely with clients for a smooth experience. Consider following up after completing orders to gauge satisfaction and address any concerns, which boosts trust and loyalty. Maintaining High-Quality Work Commit to strict quality standards for every service you offer. Define clear deliverables for each gig and stick to deadlines to enhance your reliability. Regularly review your work for improvements and consider client feedback as an opportunity for growth. Implement a system for tracking revisions and suggestions that can refine your offerings and avoid common objections. Handling Customer Feedback Address customer feedback promptly to show that you value their input. Utilize constructive criticism to improve your services and refine your sales strategy. Engage with clients who leave reviews and respond to inquiries to establish trust and promote relationship building. Acknowledge positive feedback through thank-you notes or shoutouts, reinforcing the likelihood of referral sales. Use insights gained from feedback to inform your sales pipeline and adapt your offerings to better align with customer needs and expectations. Conclusion Selling on Fiverr can be a rewarding venture if you approach it strategically. By creating an engaging profile and optimizing your gig listings, you can attract the right clients and stand out in a crowded marketplace. Remember to focus on delivering high-quality work and exceptional customer service to foster repeat business and build a loyal client base. Utilizing social media and engaging with the Fiverr community can further enhance your visibility and credibility. Keep adapting your services based on client feedback to stay relevant and competitive. With dedication and the right strategies, you can turn your skills into a profitable freelance career on Fiverr. Frequently Asked Questions What is Fiverr and how does it work? Fiverr is an online marketplace where freelancers can offer services, called “gigs,” starting at $5. It connects skilled professionals with clients looking for various services such as graphic design, writing, and digital marketing. Freelancers create profiles, list their services, and clients can browse and hire based on their needs. How can I set up my Fiverr profile? To set up an effective Fiverr profile, use a professional profile picture and a catchy display name. Include a detailed description of your services, highlight unique selling points, and incorporate relevant keywords to improve search visibility. Adding client testimonials and certifications can enhance your credibility. What are the key elements of a successful gig listing? A successful gig listing should have an engaging description that aligns with customer needs and clearly highlights your unique value proposition. Use concise language, relevant keywords for better visibility, and address potential client objections directly. Defining clear deliverables for each service tier is also important. How should I price my services on Fiverr? When pricing your services, assess your competition and consider using tiered pricing models to appeal to different customer segments. Define clear deliverables for each price point and think about offering discounts for repeat business to attract and retain clients. How can I promote my gigs effectively? Promote your gigs by utilizing social media platforms to showcase your services and engage with potential clients. Share valuable content, interact with your followers, and use relevant hashtags for increased visibility. Engaging within the Fiverr community can also enhance your credibility and reach. What are some tips for success on Fiverr? To succeed on Fiverr, maintain high-quality work and clear communication with clients. Follow up after completing orders to gauge satisfaction, respond promptly to feedback, and adapt based on client insights. Building trust through exceptional customer service can lead to repeat business and referrals. Image Via Envato This article, "Mastering How to Sell on Fiverr: Your Guide to Success as a Freelancer" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

British entrepreneur Emma Grede, who founded the women’s bodywear company Skims along with her husband Jens Grede and Kim Kardashian, is getting a lot of attention after dismissing work-life balance as a priority for employers. “Work-life balance is your problem, not the employer’s responsibility,” Grede said on “The Diary of a CEO” podcast on Monday, hosted by British entrepreneur Steven Bartlett, which features interviews with CEOs and other successful leaders. “Look, I have four kids and I had to figure out how I would think about my own ambition balanced with my parenting, that’s the truth,” she continued. While they say that all PR is good PR, Grede’s claim is sure to be controversial among leaders, employees, and employers. She also added that she viewed the priority negatively in the hiring process. “When somebody talks to me about their work-life balance in an interview process, I’m like, ‘Something is wrong with you,'” Grede told Bartlett, calling it a red flag to bring up in a job interview, and recommending that prospective employees shouldn’t ask. However, Grede’s comments feel problematic in the context that Skims is marketed primarily to women, who still bear a heavier load than men in balancing work and family, despite progress in recent decades in the workplace, according to the Pew Research Center. In fact, women are more likely than men to report experiencing work-life balance challenges, with 60% of women saying it’s a significant issue, versus 47% of men. That’s because women continue to shoulder a greater amount of work at home, both in childcare and housework, and continue to be paid less in the workplace for the same job on average. Furthermore, a 2023 Pew report that researched opposite-sex marriages found even when earnings are similar, husbands spend more time on paid work and leisure, while wives devote more time to caregiving and housework. The research found even in so-called “egalitarian marriages,” wives are still spending more than double the amount of time on housework than their husbands (4.6 hours per week for women, versus 1.9 hours per week for men), and almost two hours more per week on caregiving, including tending to children. Husbands, meanwhile, spend roughly three hours more per week than their wives on paid work, and three and a half hours more on leisure activities. Some experts also disagree with Grede’s view. Psychologist Katina Sawyer told Business Insider that considering work-life balance a skill reinforces “flawed thinking,” and “allows employers to ignore the role their expectations play in employee burnout and to shift the blame onto individuals when performance suffers.” Fast Company has reached out to Grede at Skims for comment. Speaking of podcasts, Grede also happens to be launching her own on Tuesday, called Aspire With Emma Grede, featuring “honest and unfiltered” conversations with business moguls, starting with two episodes with actress and goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow and the former chair of Starbucks, Mellody Hobson. “Aspire is my way of scaling mentorship,” Grede told People magazine. “There’s so much advice out there, but most of it doesn’t reflect the reality of what it actually takes to build something or change your life.” View the full article

I couldn't live without copy and paste—it's core to the way I write and work—but it's a pretty abstract feature when you think about it. Copy something and it goes... somewhere. Then you can paste it. Oh, and if you copy a second thing the first thing is gone. This is a problem solved by clipboard managers. These applications let you review everything you've copied recently and even select an older item to paste it. They work well, but generally require a lot of context switching. What if you want to copy multiple things and then paste them later, all in the order you copied them, without having to open a clipboard manager and choose the items in order? There's a free and open source Mac tool for that: Batch Clipboard (which I found via MacMenuBar). This application isn't a clipboard manager—in fact, it can easily be used alongside one. With the application running, you can copy text, images, or files using the keyboard shortcut Cmd-Control-C to start building a batch. When you're ready, you can paste them, one at a time starting at the beginning of the batch, using the keyboard shortcut Cmd-Control-V. You can click the menu bar icon at any time to see the current batch. It takes a second to wrap your head around, but is quite useful in certain contexts. If, for example, you're reading a document and want to collect a few quotes, you can copy each one to your batch and them paste them all to your notes in sequence, taking the time to add a bit of context as you go. This allows you to focus on reading instead of constantly switching back and forth between the source document and your notes. Credit: Justin Pot Getting started is simple. After downloading the app, you can launch it to read the quick start guide—it will talk you through using the application and ask you to enable permissions. You can access the settings by clicking the menu bar icon and clicking "Settings". You can customize the keyboard shortcuts, decide whether the application start when your computer does, and change how many history items are visible in the menu. You can also choose for the application to ignore items copied from particular applications. You could, in theory, use Batch Clipboard as an alternative to a clipboard manager—click the menu bar icon while holding the Option key and you can review everything you copied recently. You could also use it alongside a dedicated clipboard manager, or just open it when you specifically want to use the batch copying feature. Check it out if clipboard managers have never quite clicked with you. View the full article

New Delhi takes military action after blaming Islamabad for killings in Indian-administered KashmirView the full article

FHFA Director Bill Pulte has prioritized targeting fraud, including proposing a tougher Suspended Counterparty Program and debuting a mortgage fraud tip line. View the full article

Looking to do more with your first-party data? Behavioral marketing offers a powerful, privacy-conscious way to deepen customer engagement and improve performance. This guide from Acoustic breaks down seven proven strategies to help you collect, activate, and apply behavioral insights across the funnel. Whether you’re refining B2B nurture journeys or scaling cross-channel personalization, these tactics can help you shift from guesswork to real-time relevance. You’ll learn: How to build a cohesive first-party data strategy Why behavioral signals are the key to closing visibility gaps How AI and machine learning unlock smarter targeting and content Why rethinking KPIs can lead to better long-term outcomes Whether you’re just getting started with behavioral data or looking to refine a mature strategy, these seven steps offer a clear framework for putting customer insights into action—ethically and effectively. Get the guide now. View the full article

Salesforce has announced the launch of Agentforce for HR Service, a new set of AI-powered tools embedded within its HR Service platform designed to simplify and personalize employee support experiences. Now available through Slack and the Employee Portal, Agentforce for HR Service helps employees get answers to HR questions and complete common tasks without filing tickets or switching between systems. The new capabilities aim to reduce the burden on overextended HR teams, 90% of whom report being stretched thin, while also improving employee productivity and satisfaction. With Agentforce, employees can manage time-off requests, update personal and direct deposit details, track HR cases, and more using conversational AI. Agentforce for HR Service includes a suite of prebuilt, customizable AI-powered “topics” and “actions”—the broad task categories and specific functions the AI can perform. These tasks can be carried out by employees directly through Slack or the Employee Portal, providing quick, self-service access to personalized HR support. According to Salesforce, its own HR team uses Agentforce for HR Service and has achieved a 96% self-service resolution rate across nearly 10 million employee searches. This has significantly improved HR efficiency and allowed team members to focus on higher-priority issues. “Eight in ten HR chiefs say the workforce will be made up of humans and agents in the next five years. Salesforce is leading this digital labor revolution across industries, and now, we’re bringing Agentforce skills and actions to HR Service so companies can expedite requests and scale employee support when resources are limited – ensuring every employee receives quick, personalized support in the flow of work. This will not only enhance the employee experience but also boost productivity across stretched HR teams,” said Kishan Chetan, EVP & GM, Service Cloud. AI Capabilities Built Into Everyday Workflows Agentforce is integrated with leading Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) and Human Capital Management (HCM) platforms. It is grounded in company knowledge articles, documents, and structured employee data to ensure accurate, context-rich responses. Some key features include: Personalized Answers: Agentforce customizes answers using employee profiles and company policy. For example, it can determine eligibility for a Gold corporate card based on a user’s role and location. Program Tracking: The platform helps employees manage assigned programs—such as onboarding and parental leave—by tracking progress and surfacing overdue tasks. HR Case Management: Employees can check the status of requests like leave of absence or payroll issues by asking Agentforce, which can identify and respond based on conversation context. Profile Updates: Using natural language, employees can update personal details such as address or phone number within the HR system. Leave Requests: Employees can submit, cancel, or review PTO, sick leave, and other time-off categories directly via Agentforce. Direct Deposit Management: The AI agent enables users to view or change direct deposit information without logging into separate systems. Expense Management: Agentforce validates reimbursements, answers expense questions, and submits reports in one conversation. Escalation: For sensitive or complex topics, Agentforce can detect when an issue should be escalated to a human HR representative. Boosting HR Team Efficiency Within the HR Service Console, Agentforce assists HR representatives by generating suggested replies and summaries from knowledge bases in real time. It also integrates with Mulesoft to unify employee data from various HR systems, enabling faster and more informed responses. Agentforce uses the Atlas Reasoning Engine to analyze both structured and unstructured data, enabling the AI to take accurate action based on natural language input. Salesforce reports that its HR team uses Agentforce for a variety of functions—from helping employees understand wellbeing reimbursement eligibility to guiding them through open enrollment and relocation processes. These implementations have streamlined HR operations and improved employee satisfaction. By embedding AI-powered tools directly into HR workflows, Salesforce aims to reshape how HR teams deliver support, scale services, and increase efficiency in modern workplaces. Image: Salesforce This article, "Salesforce Launches Agentforce for HR Service to Streamline Employee Support" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Salesforce has announced the launch of Agentforce for HR Service, a new set of AI-powered tools embedded within its HR Service platform designed to simplify and personalize employee support experiences. Now available through Slack and the Employee Portal, Agentforce for HR Service helps employees get answers to HR questions and complete common tasks without filing tickets or switching between systems. The new capabilities aim to reduce the burden on overextended HR teams, 90% of whom report being stretched thin, while also improving employee productivity and satisfaction. With Agentforce, employees can manage time-off requests, update personal and direct deposit details, track HR cases, and more using conversational AI. Agentforce for HR Service includes a suite of prebuilt, customizable AI-powered “topics” and “actions”—the broad task categories and specific functions the AI can perform. These tasks can be carried out by employees directly through Slack or the Employee Portal, providing quick, self-service access to personalized HR support. According to Salesforce, its own HR team uses Agentforce for HR Service and has achieved a 96% self-service resolution rate across nearly 10 million employee searches. This has significantly improved HR efficiency and allowed team members to focus on higher-priority issues. “Eight in ten HR chiefs say the workforce will be made up of humans and agents in the next five years. Salesforce is leading this digital labor revolution across industries, and now, we’re bringing Agentforce skills and actions to HR Service so companies can expedite requests and scale employee support when resources are limited – ensuring every employee receives quick, personalized support in the flow of work. This will not only enhance the employee experience but also boost productivity across stretched HR teams,” said Kishan Chetan, EVP & GM, Service Cloud. AI Capabilities Built Into Everyday Workflows Agentforce is integrated with leading Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) and Human Capital Management (HCM) platforms. It is grounded in company knowledge articles, documents, and structured employee data to ensure accurate, context-rich responses. Some key features include: Personalized Answers: Agentforce customizes answers using employee profiles and company policy. For example, it can determine eligibility for a Gold corporate card based on a user’s role and location. Program Tracking: The platform helps employees manage assigned programs—such as onboarding and parental leave—by tracking progress and surfacing overdue tasks. HR Case Management: Employees can check the status of requests like leave of absence or payroll issues by asking Agentforce, which can identify and respond based on conversation context. Profile Updates: Using natural language, employees can update personal details such as address or phone number within the HR system. Leave Requests: Employees can submit, cancel, or review PTO, sick leave, and other time-off categories directly via Agentforce. Direct Deposit Management: The AI agent enables users to view or change direct deposit information without logging into separate systems. Expense Management: Agentforce validates reimbursements, answers expense questions, and submits reports in one conversation. Escalation: For sensitive or complex topics, Agentforce can detect when an issue should be escalated to a human HR representative. Boosting HR Team Efficiency Within the HR Service Console, Agentforce assists HR representatives by generating suggested replies and summaries from knowledge bases in real time. It also integrates with Mulesoft to unify employee data from various HR systems, enabling faster and more informed responses. Agentforce uses the Atlas Reasoning Engine to analyze both structured and unstructured data, enabling the AI to take accurate action based on natural language input. Salesforce reports that its HR team uses Agentforce for a variety of functions—from helping employees understand wellbeing reimbursement eligibility to guiding them through open enrollment and relocation processes. These implementations have streamlined HR operations and improved employee satisfaction. By embedding AI-powered tools directly into HR workflows, Salesforce aims to reshape how HR teams deliver support, scale services, and increase efficiency in modern workplaces. Image: Salesforce This article, "Salesforce Launches Agentforce for HR Service to Streamline Employee Support" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In the constant hustle and bustle of one of the busiest airports in the United States, a terrifying 90 seconds of quiet had disastrous results. On April 28, the Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) lost both radar and radio for a minute and a half due to a fried piece of copper wiring, the New York Post reported. This meant that air traffic controllers could not see, hear, or speak to aircraft or pilots around the airport. The event did not lead to any crashes, but it did cause significant stress on employees working at the time; five FAA employees are reportedly taking trauma leave, according to CNN, making them eligible for 45 days to recover from the event. How has the incident impacted flights? Along with a slew of other problems slowing down the airport—such as the temporary closure of a major runway for repair work and a nearly 30-year low of air controller staffing—last Monday’s incident has led to major delays and cancellations for the airport. And these delays and cancellations have continued to persist: According to the flight tracking website FlightAware, Newark airport has seen over 200 delays and 110 cancellations by 12:30 today. What have airlines said about the situation? Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, wrote in a message on Friday that Newark airport’s technology problems were compounded when “over 20% of the FAA controllers for EWR walked off the job,” putting further stress on already understaffed systems. “Without these controllers, it’s now clear – and the FAA tells us – that Newark airport cannot handle the number of planes that are scheduled to operate there in the weeks and months ahead,” He wrote. Due to these difficulties, Kirby added, United would cancel 35 round trips per day from Newark beginning this past weekend. “It’s disappointing to make further cuts to an already reduced schedule at Newark, but since there is no way to resolve the near-term structural FAA staffing issues, we feel like there is no other choice in order to protect our customers,” says Kirby. How long is this chaos going to last? While issues like the runway closure will be resolved in June, the severe lack of air traffic controllers and replacing old equipment is a longer-term problem. According to a report by Axios, the New York City region only had around 65% of its target number of certified air traffic controllers as of September 2023. This is in part because of the relatively narrow window in which people can enter the position. The FAA does not allow anyone to apply to be a controller if they are over the age of 30 and requires all controllers to retire by the age of 56. Additionally, training to become a certified professional controller (CPC) is a long and difficult process spanning 3-4 years and causes around 40% of paid trainees to drop out. In order to boost the numbers of air traffic controllers, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a press conference on May 1 that the Department of Transportation will roll out incentives such as: A 30% salary increase for new hires A $5,000 bonus for FAA Academy completion Additional resources to help students improve final exam scores Bonuses to controllers nearing retirement age Bonuses to controllers willing to staff less popular locations “We’re hoping in three to four years we can get to full staffing, not 20 years,” Duffy said. Additionally, in a statement on May 5, the FAA said that it is working on speeding up modernization efforts to improve Newark airport’s technology infrastructure. “We are working to ensure the current telecommunications equipment is more reliable in the New York area by establishing a more resilient and redundant configuration with the local exchange carriers. In addition, we are updating our automation system to improve resiliency,” the agency said. What if I’m flying in or out of Newark? Although the FAA and Department of Transportation are promising improvements for Newark airport, the unfortunate reality is that it will take a long time for travelers to see the results from them. Travelers with flights going through Newark in the coming weeks and months should stay alert and check frequently for possible delays and disruptions and consider backup plans when possible. It also may be a good idea to try to book flights earlier in the day as they are typically less likely to be delayed or canceled. In the case that your flight is cancelled or heavily delayed, the Department of Transportation says that you are entitled to a refund: “If an airline cancels a passenger’s flight or makes a significant change in the flight, regardless of the reason, airlines are required to provide a prompt refund to a ticketed passenger, including those with non-refundable tickets, should the passenger choose not to accept the alternative offered, such as rebooking on another flight.” View the full article

Salesforce Agentforce is a powerful platform for Salesforce admins who want to close gaps in essential workflows and give their teams more time to concentrate on mission-critical tasks. These autonomous agents only need a minimum amount of direction before they get to work, and they consistently learn from the tasks you set out for them. But just because the technology behind AI agents is incredibly powerful doesn’t mean Agentforce is the best option for all teams. Here’s a list of the best alternatives to Salesforce Agentforce, whether you’re working in Salesforce, in different tools, or looking to automate completely different use cases. The best Salesforce Agentforce alternatives GPTBots GPTBots is an enterprise-grade AI agent platform that provides end-to-end AI solutions for businesses, allowing users to implement AI across customer service, data analytics, and other workflows. With this no-code AI development platform, you can quickly build and deploy AI agents using a drag-and-drop interface. No need for technical skills or coding knowledge. A large library of pre-configured AI agent templates can be deployed in one click, meaning you can go from sign up to value in much less time. Unlike Salesforce Agentforce, GPTBots can be used across a greater range of tools, like Google Drive, Notion, or Microsoft Word. You can even push the output of your AI agents to automation platforms like Zapier. Biggest drawbacks Despite its powerful features, GPTBots does have some limitations. The learning curve can be significant, since even with its no-code platform, most users will need some time to master all of the tool’s features. Pricing can also be an issue. While you won’t find pricing information on the GPTBots website, some sources list its pricing as ranging from $159 to $1799 a month. This can be seriously limiting for smaller organizations, as these plans are far outside their budget. Pricing GPTBots doesn’t offer pricing information on their website, so you’ll need to book a demo with their team to get an exact idea of how much you’ll pay. ChatBot If you want to optimize the way your organization handles customer interactions, ChatBot may be the right AI tool for you. Build and deploy intelligent chatbots that provide 24/7 customer support with AI-generated responses across multiple websites and messaging channels, improving satisfaction rates and customer engagement. Like many AI builders, ChatBot has a drag-and-drop builder for creating your chatbots, allowing you to design conversational experiences without any technical skills. ChatBot has a more generous learning curve than Salesforce Agentforce, making it more accessible. You can train the chatbots you build on your business knowledge, allowing them to scan your website, help center, and other resources to give customers better answers. ChatBot also integrates natively with online stores like Shopify and messaging tools like Slack and Facebook Messenger. Biggest drawbacks ChatBot has more limited AI capabilities than Salesforce Agentforce. Agentforce’s Atlas Reasoning Engine is seriously advanced, and ChatBot doesn’t quite match up if you’re working exclusively in a Salesforce environment. Additionally, ChatBot’s laser focus on chatbot functionality means it’s best-suited for this role at the expense of other functions Agentforce can handle more effectively. Pricing ChatBot offers three pricing plans: The Starter plan at $52 a month. The Team plan at $142 a month. The Business plan at $424 a month. There’s also an Enterprise plan for organizations that need a custom plan for their needs. You can try the tool for free for 14 days without a credit card. HubSpot Breeze HubSpot Breeze is the closest equivalent to Salesforce Agentforce. Just swap out all mentions of Salesforce for HubSpot. It’s not just an AI agent builder for your HubSpot workspace. Rather, it’s a collection of multiple AI tools you’ll find throughout HubSpot’s various products. HubSpot Breeze includes these AI tools: Breeze Copilot, an AI sidekick that’ll help with any tasks you’re doing throughout HubSpot. Breeze Agents, AI agents that automate workflows throughout HubSpot tools. Breeze Intelligence, which enriches HubSpot CRM with data pulled from over 200 million buyer and company profiles. Breeze Agents are the closest alternative to Salesforce Agentforce, since they can also perform tasks from start to finish without supervision. Biggest drawbacks Like Salesforce, HubSpot can get quite expensive as your usage of it grows. While you can start using it for free, getting access to any advanced features requires a paid plan. These expensive plans can put HubSpot Breeze far out of reach for smaller organizations. Unlike Salesforce, HubSpot Breeze is less customizable, and enterprise-level businesses with the resources to tailor AI agents to their specific requirements might find that the tool doesn’t meet their needs. Pricing You can get access to HubSpot Breeze for free, through you’ll only get access to basic features, like Copilot assistance for basic tasks and limited access to other tools. If you want more advanced features — like Breeze Agents and Breeze Intelligence — you’ll need to either pay for a HubSpot plan or pay the $50 a month for a Starter HubSpot Plan. Glean Glean is a Work AI platform that both connects and understands your company’s data, no matter where it lives. This gives end users the ability to find information, generate content, and automate repetitive tasks. Think of it as a centralized hub for all your essential data that also allows you to outsource work based on that data to Glean’s AI agents. Unlike Salesforce Agentforce, which only works within the Salesforce ecosystem, Glean Agents can connect with over 100 data sources and applications, following you wherever your workflows are. Biggest drawbacks While Glean Agents can work across more tools than Salesforce Agentforce without extra software integrations, they do so at the cost of depth. Agentforce agents allow their users to drill deep into the various parts of their Salesforce ecosystem to accomplish all sorts of tasks. Glean is more limited. Additionally, the LLM (large language model) built into Glean is more limited than similar technology found in its competitors. Pricing Glean doesn’t make its pricing public, so you’ll need to get in touch with their sales team to get an exact quote. However, software pricing resource Vendr lists the average annual cost for Glean as $13,846, based on five deals. Hightouch AI Decisioning Hightouch AI Decisioning is a machine learning platform that gives marketers the best of both worlds: personalized marketing at scale without the manual work. Segmentation, content planning, and A/B testing are all handled by this advanced platform, allowing marketers to get more out of every campaign dollar. Proper segmentation can make or break a marketing campaign, and Hightouch AI Decisioning uses reinforcement learning and other machine learning models to identify the best content, channel, and timing for each individual customer. With this tool, marketers can focus on the creative and strategic aspects of their campaigns rather than the more technical aspects of execution. Biggest drawbacks Hightouch AI Decisioning’s narrow focus marketing campaigns means it supports far fewer use cases than Salesforce Agentforce. It’s a fantastic tool for marketers who want to optimize their campaigns, but it won’t do much for everyone else. You’ll also need a robust base of original content to make the most of this tool, since its focus is on optimizing your use of existing content rather than creating net new content. Pricing Hightouch AI Decisioning is only available with Hightouch’s Business plan, for which pricing isn’t available online. You’ll have to book a demo with their sales team to get an exact quote. Think of Devin as an AI-powered software engineer. Whether you’re trying to solve complex engineering problems or offload routine coding tasks, Devin can take these on from start to finish. It has all the tools a human software engineer would need to complete this kind of work, including a shell, code editor, and a browser within a sandboxed environment. You can use it to build websites, fix bugs in your codebase, deploy applications, train AI models, and more. Biggest drawbacks Where Salesforce Agentforce is essentially a multi-tool for all things Salesforce, Devin is a nail gun for software development. It’s specifically tailored to this use case and won’t be useful to marketers trying to improve their campaigns or customer success agents building chatbots. Pricing Devin offers three pricing plans: The Core plan, which is pay-as-you-go. You can expect to pay $2.25 per ACU (Agent Compute Unit), which is Devin’s unit of work. The Team plan comes with 250 monthly ACUs and costs $500 a month. It also unlocks access to the Devin API and early access to new features. The Enterprise plan offers custom pricing, and you’ll need to contact Devin’s sales team for details. What if you need more from your AI agents? AI agents offer powerful automation, allowing businesses to unlock completely new workflows without increasing headcount or investing in engineering resources. But most AI agent tools come with a common limitation: software integration. Salesforce Agentforce — and similar platforms — operate within a silo. They pull data from your CRM, your internal knowledge base, and similar documentation, but rarely consult data trapped in other tools without extra work from your team. That’s why software integration is essential for getting the most out of your AI agents. A two-way sync platform like Unito connects your team’s essential tools, like project management apps, CRMs, and support tools, so all your data flows freely between them. Work in one tool automatically appears in the others, meaning all your teams have access to everything they need. The same goes for your AI agents. Want to know how you can get more out of your AI agent with a Unito integration? Meet with a Unito product expert who understands your needs. Talk with sales FAQ: Salesforce Agentforce alternatives What is Salesforce Agentforce? Salesforce Agentforce is a built-in AI agent that allows Salesforce users to automate complex, repetitive tasks without manually coding an automation. These AI agents can learn from their actions, and they get better at the tasks you give them over time. Agentforce is natively integrated throughout the Salesforce platform, meaning the agents can pull from data throughout Salesforce. That includes prospect data, deal information, customer conversations, and your knowledge base. Why use a Salesforce Agentforce alternative? There are a few reasons why you might want to use one of these alternatives: Your use of Salesforce is limited or you’re planning on migrating to a different platform. You find Salesforce Agentforce to be relatively light on features and you want a more robust tool. You use a tool like HubSpot and need an AI agent that can support it. You need an AI agent that can be used with more tools than just Salesforce. How is Agentforce different from Copilot? Agentforce is an AI agent that works within the Salesforce ecosystem. It can be used to automate tasks, train new team members, and more, all within Salesforce. As an AI agent, Agentforce can work independently once given clear instructions. Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant that can assist a human user by answering questions, brainstorming ideas, and improving productivity. It can’t take actions on its own, it can only answer the prompts a user puts in. Copilot is very similar to ChatGPT, and it has similar capabilities. An AI agent like Salesforce Agentforce is more like an independent piece of software that can make changes throughout Salesforce. What is the best alternative to Salesforce Agentforce? Here are the seven best alternatives to Salesforce Agentforce: GPTBots.ai: A no-code AI agent builder supporting workflows like customer support and enterprise search. Chatbot: A tool that allows you to build AI chatbots for WordPress websites, Shopify stores, and more. HubSpot Breeze: An AI agent built into HubSpot that can be used to create content, generate leads, and automatically build marketing campaigns. Glean: A tool for setting up AI agents that crawl your enterprise’s data, create content, and automate your work. Hightouch AI Decisioning: An AI agent that generates insights marketers can use to build better campaigns. Devin: An AI agent for engineering teams that want to automate coding. Salesforce Tableau Agent: An AI agent built into Salesforce’s Tableau, a data analysis tool. View the full article

Key Takeaways Evolving Consumer Expectations: Customers prioritize speed in delivery more than ever, with 88% of consumers favoring retailers that offer quick fulfillment options. Logistics Challenges: Adapting to faster delivery demands requires businesses to streamline logistics, optimize inventory management, and enhance operational efficiency to avoid delays. Cost Management: Upgrading logistics systems to meet delivery speed can escalate costs; however, these investments often lead to improved customer retention and increased sales. Technology Integration: Leveraging technology such as route optimization software and inventory management systems is crucial for staying competitive and meeting consumer expectations. Opportunities for Innovation: The shift towards faster delivery can drive innovation, enabling businesses to explore new strategies, such as crowd-sourced delivery and automated fulfillment systems, to enhance customer satisfaction. Competitive Necessity: Embracing faster delivery is no longer optional; it is essential for brands to remain relevant and differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for quicker delivery has transformed the way businesses operate. Customers expect their orders to arrive at lightning speed, pushing companies to rethink their logistics and supply chain strategies. This shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s become a competitive necessity that can make or break a brand’s reputation. As you navigate this evolving landscape, understanding the impact of faster delivery demands is crucial. From increased operational costs to the strain on resources, the challenges are significant. However, with these challenges come opportunities for innovation and growth. Embracing this shift can lead to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty, setting your business apart in a crowded marketplace. Overview of Faster Delivery Demands Faster delivery demands significantly shape the retail landscape, especially for small businesses. Customers now expect quick fulfillment, often within hours or days of placing an order. This shift forces you to adapt your logistics and supply chain strategies to meet these expectations, positioning speed as a key competitive factor. Small businesses face unique challenges in this evolving market. Increased operational costs arise from the need to streamline processes and invest in efficient delivery systems. Balancing prompt service with resource limitations can strain your operational capabilities, making it essential to find innovative solutions. Fulfilling faster delivery demands can create opportunities for growth. Enhancing logistics through technology helps you optimize routes, manage inventory, and improve order tracking. Adopting effective strategies not only boosts customer satisfaction but also fosters loyalty, allowing your storefront to thrive amidst rising expectations. Prioritizing speedy service can distinguish your small business and strengthen your market presence. Factors Driving Faster Delivery Expectations In today’s retail landscape, faster delivery expectations increasingly shape consumer behavior and business operations. You must recognize these driving factors to adapt effectively. Consumer Behavior Shifts Consumers prioritize speed like never before. Online shopping has reshaped their expectations for quick fulfillment. Studies show 88% of consumers prioritize the speed of delivery when choosing retailers, which prompts you to streamline logistics. Small businesses with storefronts face mounting pressure as competitors offer same-day or next-day shipping. Shifts in consumer behavior favor brands that deliver promptly, compelling you to meet or exceed these expectations to retain loyal customers. Technological Advancements Technological innovations significantly contribute to the demand for quicker deliveries. Platforms like mobile apps and eCommerce websites enable instant order processing. Tools such as route optimization software enhance delivery efficiency. Adoption of inventory management systems ensures real-time tracking and availability. Leveraging technology allows you to respond to customer needs quickly. Using automation in your operations can minimize delays, ensuring you stay competitive in a market where efficiency often determines success. Impact on Businesses The demand for faster delivery has a profound effect on businesses, particularly for small businesses that often operate with limited resources. Adapting to these demands challenges traditional operational practices and necessitates a strategic reevaluation of logistics. Operational Challenges You face several operational challenges when adjusting to faster delivery expectations. Streamlining logistics becomes crucial, as inefficient processes can lead to delays that frustrate customers. Inventory management must become more agile to ensure stock levels align with real-time demand. Moreover, if you don’t embrace technology, you risk falling behind competitors who leverage tools like route optimization software and mobile apps to improve shipment efficiency. Small storefronts, in particular, might struggle to balance speed with the personalized service that sets them apart. Cost Implications Costs can escalate as you implement changes to meet faster delivery demands. Upgraded logistics systems may require significant investments in technology and infrastructure. Hiring additional staff or partnering with third-party delivery services can further inflate operational costs. However, while these expenses seem daunting, they can also lead to improved customer retention and increased sales. Research shows that 88% of consumers prioritize delivery speed when choosing retailers, making the initial investment worthwhile for small businesses aiming to compete in the retail landscape. Effect on Supply Chain Dynamics Faster delivery demands significantly influence supply chain dynamics across various sectors, especially for small businesses operating retail storefronts. Adjusting to these expectations reshapes logistics strategies and necessitates a focus on efficiency and innovation. Logistics Optimization Logistics optimization becomes crucial as you adapt to quicker delivery expectations. You must streamline operations to enhance order accuracy and minimize lead times. Techniques such as just-in-time inventory management ensure that products are available without overstocking, reducing storage costs. Utilizing technology, like route optimization software, helps create efficient delivery paths, cutting travel time and fuel expenses. Integrating advanced inventory management systems aids in real-time tracking, letting you respond promptly to demand fluctuations. These strategies not only improve efficiency but also elevate customer satisfaction and loyalty. Last-Mile Delivery Innovations Last-mile delivery innovations are essential for meeting customer expectations for speed. Focus on improving this final segment of the delivery process, as it significantly impacts the customer experience. Implementing solutions such as crowd-sourced delivery platforms can help you expand reach without hefty costs. Using smart lockers or designated pickup points offers convenient options for customers, eliminating the need for direct delivery. Investing in automated delivery systems, like drones or robotic vehicles, provides alternative solutions that enhance fulfillment speed. These innovations position your small business to compete effectively within the retail landscape, ensuring that you meet fast delivery demands with agility. Conclusion Adapting to faster delivery demands is no longer optional for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. It’s essential to embrace innovative logistics solutions that enhance efficiency and meet customer expectations. While the challenges can be daunting especially for small businesses the potential for growth and improved customer loyalty is significant. By leveraging technology and optimizing your supply chain you can turn these demands into opportunities. The right strategies will not only help you keep pace with consumer expectations but also position your business for long-term success. As you navigate this evolving landscape remember that agility and innovation are your greatest allies in meeting the relentless pace of delivery demands. Frequently Asked Questions What is the impact of faster delivery on small businesses? Faster delivery demands are pushing small businesses to reevaluate their logistics and supply chain strategies. While this can lead to increased operational costs and resource strain, it also opens up opportunities for growth through technology and improved logistics. Why do customers prioritize delivery speed? Studies show that 88% of consumers consider delivery speed when choosing retailers. The rise of e-commerce has set a standard for quick order fulfillment, making speed a crucial factor in customer satisfaction and loyalty. What challenges do small businesses face with faster delivery? Small businesses often struggle with limited resources, which makes it difficult to meet faster delivery expectations. This includes managing operational costs and adapting logistics strategies to enhance efficiency without compromising service quality. How can technology help small businesses meet delivery demands? Technology, like mobile apps and route optimization software, enables small businesses to streamline logistics. These tools help enhance efficiency, minimize delays, and improve inventory management, making it easier to fulfill fast delivery requests. What logistics strategies are effective for faster delivery? Effective strategies include just-in-time inventory management, real-time tracking, and optimizing delivery routes. By focusing on these areas, small businesses can enhance their operational efficiency and better meet the increasing demand for speed in delivery. How do last-mile delivery innovations influence customer experience? Last-mile delivery innovations, such as crowd-sourced delivery platforms and automated systems, greatly enhance customer experience. They ensure quick and reliable delivery, which is essential for satisfying consumer expectations for fast service. Are there cost implications for improving delivery speed? Yes, upgrading logistics systems often leads to increased operational costs, such as hiring more staff or partnering with third-party services. However, these costs can be viewed as necessary investments to retain customers and boost sales in a competitive market. Image Via Envato This article, "The Impact of Faster Delivery Demands on Small Businesses and Logistics Strategies" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Evolving Consumer Expectations: Customers prioritize speed in delivery more than ever, with 88% of consumers favoring retailers that offer quick fulfillment options. Logistics Challenges: Adapting to faster delivery demands requires businesses to streamline logistics, optimize inventory management, and enhance operational efficiency to avoid delays. Cost Management: Upgrading logistics systems to meet delivery speed can escalate costs; however, these investments often lead to improved customer retention and increased sales. Technology Integration: Leveraging technology such as route optimization software and inventory management systems is crucial for staying competitive and meeting consumer expectations. Opportunities for Innovation: The shift towards faster delivery can drive innovation, enabling businesses to explore new strategies, such as crowd-sourced delivery and automated fulfillment systems, to enhance customer satisfaction. Competitive Necessity: Embracing faster delivery is no longer optional; it is essential for brands to remain relevant and differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for quicker delivery has transformed the way businesses operate. Customers expect their orders to arrive at lightning speed, pushing companies to rethink their logistics and supply chain strategies. This shift isn’t just about convenience; it’s become a competitive necessity that can make or break a brand’s reputation. As you navigate this evolving landscape, understanding the impact of faster delivery demands is crucial. From increased operational costs to the strain on resources, the challenges are significant. However, with these challenges come opportunities for innovation and growth. Embracing this shift can lead to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty, setting your business apart in a crowded marketplace. Overview of Faster Delivery Demands Faster delivery demands significantly shape the retail landscape, especially for small businesses. Customers now expect quick fulfillment, often within hours or days of placing an order. This shift forces you to adapt your logistics and supply chain strategies to meet these expectations, positioning speed as a key competitive factor. Small businesses face unique challenges in this evolving market. Increased operational costs arise from the need to streamline processes and invest in efficient delivery systems. Balancing prompt service with resource limitations can strain your operational capabilities, making it essential to find innovative solutions. Fulfilling faster delivery demands can create opportunities for growth. Enhancing logistics through technology helps you optimize routes, manage inventory, and improve order tracking. Adopting effective strategies not only boosts customer satisfaction but also fosters loyalty, allowing your storefront to thrive amidst rising expectations. Prioritizing speedy service can distinguish your small business and strengthen your market presence. Factors Driving Faster Delivery Expectations In today’s retail landscape, faster delivery expectations increasingly shape consumer behavior and business operations. You must recognize these driving factors to adapt effectively. Consumer Behavior Shifts Consumers prioritize speed like never before. Online shopping has reshaped their expectations for quick fulfillment. Studies show 88% of consumers prioritize the speed of delivery when choosing retailers, which prompts you to streamline logistics. Small businesses with storefronts face mounting pressure as competitors offer same-day or next-day shipping. Shifts in consumer behavior favor brands that deliver promptly, compelling you to meet or exceed these expectations to retain loyal customers. Technological Advancements Technological innovations significantly contribute to the demand for quicker deliveries. Platforms like mobile apps and eCommerce websites enable instant order processing. Tools such as route optimization software enhance delivery efficiency. Adoption of inventory management systems ensures real-time tracking and availability. Leveraging technology allows you to respond to customer needs quickly. Using automation in your operations can minimize delays, ensuring you stay competitive in a market where efficiency often determines success. Impact on Businesses The demand for faster delivery has a profound effect on businesses, particularly for small businesses that often operate with limited resources. Adapting to these demands challenges traditional operational practices and necessitates a strategic reevaluation of logistics. Operational Challenges You face several operational challenges when adjusting to faster delivery expectations. Streamlining logistics becomes crucial, as inefficient processes can lead to delays that frustrate customers. Inventory management must become more agile to ensure stock levels align with real-time demand. Moreover, if you don’t embrace technology, you risk falling behind competitors who leverage tools like route optimization software and mobile apps to improve shipment efficiency. Small storefronts, in particular, might struggle to balance speed with the personalized service that sets them apart. Cost Implications Costs can escalate as you implement changes to meet faster delivery demands. Upgraded logistics systems may require significant investments in technology and infrastructure. Hiring additional staff or partnering with third-party delivery services can further inflate operational costs. However, while these expenses seem daunting, they can also lead to improved customer retention and increased sales. Research shows that 88% of consumers prioritize delivery speed when choosing retailers, making the initial investment worthwhile for small businesses aiming to compete in the retail landscape. Effect on Supply Chain Dynamics Faster delivery demands significantly influence supply chain dynamics across various sectors, especially for small businesses operating retail storefronts. Adjusting to these expectations reshapes logistics strategies and necessitates a focus on efficiency and innovation. Logistics Optimization Logistics optimization becomes crucial as you adapt to quicker delivery expectations. You must streamline operations to enhance order accuracy and minimize lead times. Techniques such as just-in-time inventory management ensure that products are available without overstocking, reducing storage costs. Utilizing technology, like route optimization software, helps create efficient delivery paths, cutting travel time and fuel expenses. Integrating advanced inventory management systems aids in real-time tracking, letting you respond promptly to demand fluctuations. These strategies not only improve efficiency but also elevate customer satisfaction and loyalty. Last-Mile Delivery Innovations Last-mile delivery innovations are essential for meeting customer expectations for speed. Focus on improving this final segment of the delivery process, as it significantly impacts the customer experience. Implementing solutions such as crowd-sourced delivery platforms can help you expand reach without hefty costs. Using smart lockers or designated pickup points offers convenient options for customers, eliminating the need for direct delivery. Investing in automated delivery systems, like drones or robotic vehicles, provides alternative solutions that enhance fulfillment speed. These innovations position your small business to compete effectively within the retail landscape, ensuring that you meet fast delivery demands with agility. Conclusion Adapting to faster delivery demands is no longer optional for businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. It’s essential to embrace innovative logistics solutions that enhance efficiency and meet customer expectations. While the challenges can be daunting especially for small businesses the potential for growth and improved customer loyalty is significant. By leveraging technology and optimizing your supply chain you can turn these demands into opportunities. The right strategies will not only help you keep pace with consumer expectations but also position your business for long-term success. As you navigate this evolving landscape remember that agility and innovation are your greatest allies in meeting the relentless pace of delivery demands. Frequently Asked Questions What is the impact of faster delivery on small businesses? Faster delivery demands are pushing small businesses to reevaluate their logistics and supply chain strategies. While this can lead to increased operational costs and resource strain, it also opens up opportunities for growth through technology and improved logistics. Why do customers prioritize delivery speed? Studies show that 88% of consumers consider delivery speed when choosing retailers. The rise of e-commerce has set a standard for quick order fulfillment, making speed a crucial factor in customer satisfaction and loyalty. What challenges do small businesses face with faster delivery? Small businesses often struggle with limited resources, which makes it difficult to meet faster delivery expectations. This includes managing operational costs and adapting logistics strategies to enhance efficiency without compromising service quality. How can technology help small businesses meet delivery demands? Technology, like mobile apps and route optimization software, enables small businesses to streamline logistics. These tools help enhance efficiency, minimize delays, and improve inventory management, making it easier to fulfill fast delivery requests. What logistics strategies are effective for faster delivery? Effective strategies include just-in-time inventory management, real-time tracking, and optimizing delivery routes. By focusing on these areas, small businesses can enhance their operational efficiency and better meet the increasing demand for speed in delivery. How do last-mile delivery innovations influence customer experience? Last-mile delivery innovations, such as crowd-sourced delivery platforms and automated systems, greatly enhance customer experience. They ensure quick and reliable delivery, which is essential for satisfying consumer expectations for fast service. Are there cost implications for improving delivery speed? Yes, upgrading logistics systems often leads to increased operational costs, such as hiring more staff or partnering with third-party services. However, these costs can be viewed as necessary investments to retain customers and boost sales in a competitive market. Image Via Envato This article, "The Impact of Faster Delivery Demands on Small Businesses and Logistics Strategies" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

You likely update devices like your smartphone or laptop fairly frequently. (Perhaps you've put the latest one off a little longer than you should.) But how often are you updating other types of devices, like your TV? Despite how routine and simple your TV use may be, it can be important to keep the tube, like other devices, updated to the latest software and firmware version. And while many smart TVs routinely check for the latest updates, it's possible yours doesn't. I don't keep my TV connected to the internet, for example, so there's no way for me to check for updates via wifi. You don't need to hook your TV up to your network to update it, however, nor do you need a TV that will look for updates on its own. As a matter of fact, one of your TV's overlooked ports can help keep it fully up to date, as ZDNet's Chris Bayer explains. How to update your TV over USBTo start, you'll need three items: a TV (to update), a computer (to download the update), and a USB drive (to store the update). First, figure out what TV you actually have. It isn't necessarily enough to just know the brand, since that company may make many different types of TVs. You'll want to grab your particular TV's model number to make sure you're pulling the most recent update available for that model. If you have your TV mounted or backed up to a wall, it might be a bit tricky to find, since the model number is usually on a sticker on the back of your TV. If you can, pull your TV as far out as you safely can, and use a flashlight or your smartphone camera to locate the sticker with the identification number. You can also see if your TV has its model number in its settings menu. This may be in an "About" or "General" menu. Once you know your TV's model number, head to the manufacturer's site and look for the downloads section. For example, for an LG TV, you'll find this in the "Support" section under "Software & Drivers for Downloading." When asked, enter your model number, and the site should take you to the list of available software to download. You'll want to make sure you're choosing the most recent download available, as well as the one for your region, as you don't want to install the wrong software on your TV. Once you find the right software version, download it to your computer. If it arrives as a ZIP file, you can either click it to unzip (Mac), or right-click and choose "Extract All" (Windows). Once you have access to the files (which should appear as .bin or .img files), connect a USB stick to your computer and move the files to the drive, making sure to add the files to the main drive and not any of the folders that might be on it. Choose to eject the drive from your Mac or PC before physically removing it from your computer. Finally, plug the USB stick into your TV. If your TV doesn't automatically register the update file on the stick, head to your TV's settings and look for "update" language, like "Software Update" or "Firmware Update." Your TV should walk you through the proper steps. If the update didn't work, format the driveOne possible issue with this method concerns the USB drive itself. If it isn't properly formatted (to FAT32), your TV may not recognize it. You can format the drive on either Windows or Mac, but note that formatting requires erasing everything on the drive. If you have any essential data on your drive, back it up somewhere else first, or choose another drive to work with. If the drive is small enough, you can format it through Windows' Explorer. Right-click on the drive, then choose Format. Here, choose FAT32 under "File system," then check Quick Format. Click Start, click OK on the pop-up that warns you you will lose all data on the drive, and you're set. On Mac, plug your drive in, then open Disk Utility. Choose Erase, then choose MS-DOS (FAT) from the "Format" drop down. Now, click Erase, then choose Done when finished. View the full article

If you’re like most people, you probably didn’t think a whole lot about tariffs before this year. And if you’re like most people, you’ve probably spent this year thinking a lot about tariffs—specifically, how they’re going to impact your life. Whether it’s worry over higher prices and empty store shelves or more generalized economic anxiety, these certainly are exciting times. And, like clockwork, we can add one more thing to worry about in relation to tariffs: Scams. Pivoting off the chaos and uncertainty everyone is experiencing around the on-again, off-again tariffs and their constantly shifting parameters, scammers have quickly assembled a few new attacks on your bank account. They count on the fact that most of us aren’t economists or experienced with import/export law, so it can be easy to frighten or intimidate us into forking over money, especially because the one thing most of us know about tariffs is that they’re going to cost us money. Here are the tariff scams you need to be on alert for—and how to spot them. Fake government emailsOne new scam attempts to leverage people’s unfamiliarity with tariffs by posing as government agencies seeking tariff payments directly from consumers. Several hundred websites have been created since the beginning of the year, many with deceptive names including terms like “U.S. Customs” or “Tariffs” in hopes of convincing you they’re legitimate organs of the government. The scammers then send out emails from those official-looking domains claiming that you owe a tariff payment for something you bought recently, or that you owe a general tariff payment. Sometimes the scammer’s goal is to get you to make a payment, but often it’s just to collect your information via an official-looking form. How to spot it: First, always keep in mind that consumers don’t pay tariffs directly—if the costs are passed on to you, it’s through higher prices. Any request for a direct tariff payment is almost certainly a scam. Any official government website will have a “.gov” extension, so you should be suspicious of any “.com” or “.net” sites claiming to be associated with the government. You can also use what’s known as a WHOIS lookup to see when a web domain was registered. Any site created within the last few months should be considered extremely suspicious. Fake messages about mail and packagesAnother way scammers will try to leverage tariff confusion against you is by pretending to be a major shipping company like FedEx or UPS. They’ll send you an email claiming that you have a package being held because a tariff is owed, and direct you to a scam sight to pay to have the package released. This is a twist on an old scam, but uncertainty over who owes tariffs gives it a fresh sheen of legitimacy. How to spot it: Simply reminding yourself that you should never pay a tariff directly is key—any request from a shipping company or the United States Post Office for a tariff-related fee is a scam, full stop. If you actually have packages coming and you’re at all uncertain of their status, always verify details separately by going to the shipper’s main website and entering tracking information there, or contacting their customer service. Factory shoppingIf you’re a consumer on a budget—and who isn’t these days—you might be excited to stumble on a social media post or email purporting to sell you stuff directly from factories in China or other countries without a tariff. They claim that the stuff is the same as name-brand clothing or other items, just without the branding, making them cheaper to offset any tariff-driven price increases. These sites are often pushed by so-called influencers on platforms like TikTok, who gush about avoiding tariff fees. Of course, once you receive your items—assuming you actually do—they’re almost certainly counterfeit and probably pretty crappy in terms of quality. And you won’t have the benefit of the brand’s customer service to fall back on, either. How to spot it: Anyone claiming they can circumvent tariffs is probably lying to you, and the old rule about things being too good to be true (i.e., they probably aren’t) always applies. If you see a post or video purporting to show a foreign factory selling items directly to consumers, it’s almost certainly a scam. Fake tariff relief paymentsAll this talk of skyrocketing prices has made everyone understandably nervous about paying their bills. This has led to a version of a scam that’s been popular ever since the pandemic stimulus checks went out: Fake relief payments. Advertisements are showing up on social media claiming that there are various “tariff relief” payments going out, offering anywhere from $750 to $5,600. These are supposedly government programs to help us all survive the new reality of tariffs, and in the wake of previous government bailouts and stimulus payments they can seem plausible at first glance. Of course, if you click on any of these ads you’ll find yourself at a phishing site demanding every bit of sensitive information the scammers can think of. How to spot it: Since these usually pop up in the form of paid ads on platforms like Facebook, they will usually be marked as “sponsored” in some way—if you see an indication that it’s a paid ad, ignore it. If the government were to send out some sort of tariff-related stimulus, it wouldn’t require you to fill out forms—like previous stimulus payments, it would rely on the reams of data it already has on you thanks to the IRS. And a tariff stimulus would be in the news. A lot. If you’re tempted to believe something like this, look for headlines on legitimate news sites—if you don’t see any, assume it’s a scam. Investment scamsScammers are always trying to play off two things: Fear and greed. While there have always been investment scams involving fake accounts or dubious cryptocurrencies, the newest versions of these scams play on everyone’s fear of economic turmoil, claiming that a new investment product—typically in the cryptocurrency sphere—offers a risk-free safe haven from tariff chaos. While economies and national currencies might falter as trade wars escalate, the pitch goes, this nifty new version of money is unaffected by tariffs or other traditional economic factors and offers steady returns. Naturally, if you actually contact these sites and make an investment, your money simply vanishes, or you’re pulled into a Pig Butchering scam complete with a fake website showing you incredible returns on your investment that you will never actually be able to withdraw. How to spot it: The most obvious sign of a scam investment is an unrealistic rate of return. Any investment that “guarantees” no risk of loss and a huge profit in a short time is almost always a scam. If it involves a cryptocurrency you’ve never heard of, you should definitely be suspicious. An increasingly common sign of a tariff-related crypto scam is a fake “endorsement” from a political figure—a scam targeting nervous Canadian investors, for example, used fake testimonials from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other officials to fool people. Government officials typically don’t endorse investments, and you should absolutely fact-check any you see without relying on links provided by the site itself. View the full article

Following capacity management best practices is crucial for businesses to optimize resource utilization and meet customer demands. This article details ten best practices, including demand forecasting, real-time monitoring, and leveraging AI, providing real-world examples and tool suggestions. By implementing these strategies, organizations can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve sustainable growth. The post 10 Capacity Management Best Practices (With Examples) appeared first on The Digital Project Manager. View the full article

The average total consumer household debt last year was $105,056—a 13% increase over the past five years, according to the most recent data. When it comes to researching strategies and tips for paying off your balances, it’s easy to get lost down a rabbit hole. And that rabbit hole can distract you from the real work of getting organized and tackling your debt. Taking the first steps toward a clear plan and system in place—even just reading this article—can help you feel more in control and start to make some progress toward being debt-free. If you're worried and feeling overwhelmed by debt, here are initial steps to take so you can get organized and make some real progress. Know what you oweBefore you can tackle your debt, you need a complete picture of what you're facing. Here are the first actionable steps you can take: Gather all statements for every debt you have (credit cards, student loans, medical bills, personal loans). Create a master list with the creditor name, balance, interest rate, minimum payment, and due date for each debt. Check your credit reports to ensure you haven't missed any debts. Keep this information in one accessible place—a spreadsheet, notebook, or budgeting app. List out your interest ratesIn order to prioritize your debts, list them out by interest rates. If you can’t rattle off yours, it’s time to log into your accounts or check your latest statement to pinpoint your interest rate for each and every balance you carry. Doing this now can help you strategize to get that debt paid off faster. Choose a payoff methodOnce you know your interest rates, you can strategize your payoff plan with either the snowball method or the avalanche method. The avalanche method prioritizes high-interest debt first, helping you pay less interest in the long run by knocking out debts with higher interest rates as soon as possible. The main benefit of the debt avalanche is that it saves you the most money in the long run by targeting the most expensive debt first. This can be especially helpful if you have one or two debts with significantly higher interest rates than the others. Knocking those out first can make a big dent in the total amount you owe. The snowball method, on the other hand, focuses on paying off your debts in order of smallest balance to largest. The idea is that getting "wins" by paying off smaller debts quickly can provide much-needed motivation to keep going. The main benefit of the debt snowball is the psychological boost you get from crossing debts off your list one by one. This can be incredibly powerful, especially if you have a lot of smaller debts that feel overwhelming. Paying them off in quick succession can give you the momentum to keep tackling the larger debts. Never miss a paymentEven if you only make the minimum payment on your balances to start, make sure you pay each and every bill on time, every time. Missing that due date could result in both a late fee and a penalty APR, meaning you could pay up to 30% interest for a while instead of your normal interest rate. Dealing with that penalty interest rate could set your payoff plans back in a major way. To make it easier to avoid payment disasters, set up automatic payments. You can always make additional payments when you’re able to pay more than the minimum, or adjust the amount for your monthly payments. And if your debt is in a balance transfer promotional period (more on that in the next slide), you’ll want to make sure you can pay off your entire balance during that zero-interest period. Consolidate your debt or transfer your balanceIf you’re having a hard time paying more than the minimum on your debts, consider taking steps to reduce your interest rates. There are two main ways you can do this if you don’t feel like calling every one of your creditors to haggle: Consolidate: Debt consolidation makes sense if you can save money over the long term by securing a better interest rate, or if streamlining will be what allows you to make payments on time. And remember, consolidated debt is still debt that needs to be paid off as quickly as possible. Transfer: Check with your credit card issuer for zero-interest balance transfer offers, which allow you to transfer in your balance from another source of debt to your current account. Zero-interest offer periods can last anywhere between nine and 18 months. Forget about earning rewardsRewards earnings setups and signup bonuses have a special way of getting people to spend more than they bargained for. If you’re in debt, now isn’t the time to try to optimize your credit card use to earn maximum rewards. This is especially important if you have cards that charge annual fees. If you have some rewards cards in your wallet, convert your balance to statement credit to help put a dent in your balance. Ask for help if you get stuckIf you’re having a hard time paying your minimum debt payments because of a financial hardship like a job loss, you can ask your creditor if it has a customer assistance program. You may be able to defer your payments for a few months while you get back on track. You can also get a second opinion on your debt payoff plan, whether your monthly budget is in dire straits or you’re just feeling stuck. Credit counseling organizations are typically non-profit groups that provide a range of money management services and educational resources to consumers. Their counselors are certified professionals who can give you expert, unbiased guidance on how to handle your specific financial situation. All the money you pay goes directly toward your debts, but there may be costs to use such a program. There’s often a setup fee of up to $75 and an ongoing monthly fee of between $25 and $75. Prepare for setbacksLife happens—stay organized even when challenges arise. Know which bills could be temporarily reduced if finances get tight, and have contact information ready for creditors if you need to request hardship accommodations. Review and adjust your plan quarterly to stay realistic and on track. Getting organized isn't a one-time event but an ongoing process that supports your financial goals. With these systems in place, you'll build momentum to pay off your debt once and for all. View the full article

OpenAI was founded as a nonprofit with a mission to build safe artificial general intelligence for the benefit of humanity. For a while, that structure made sense. But in 2019, the company made a discovery that changed everything: scaling up AI models—with more data, compute, and parameters—led to predictably stronger results. The insight was formalized in a 2020 paper titled “Scaling Laws for Neural Language Models,” and it reshaped OpenAI’s trajectory. That same year, the company released GPT-3, a model 100 times larger than GPT-2. Microsoft invested. Venture capitalists piled in. Inside the company, employees began to see Sam Altman as the one who could turn a nonprofit breakthrough into a world-changing—and highly profitable—business. And yet OpenAI remained a nonprofit company. Seen in that light, yesterday’s announcement that OpenAI’s for-profit arm will become a “public benefit company” (PBC) is no big surprise. Under the newly proposed structure, OpenAI will continue operating as a for-profit AI business housed within a nonprofit parent. (Altman said last year he wanted to free the for-profit from the nonprofit parent.) “We made the decision for the nonprofit to retain control of OpenAI after hearing from civic leaders and engaging in constructive dialogue with the offices of the Attorney General of Delaware and the Attorney General of California,” OpenAI board member Bret Taylor said in a blog post Monday. The change is that the for-profit part will now be a “public benefit corporation” and no longer a “capped profit” entity. Now there’s no limit on how much OpenAI shareholders—including investors and employees—can earn. Dropping the capped-profit model was also a condition of OpenAI’s last two funding rounds. In the most recent (and largest), lead investor SoftBank stipulated that OpenAI adopt a new corporate structure by the end of 2025. Investors are willing to bet big on OpenAI, but they want the potential for big returns. Altman and others at OpenAI have said that bringing in revenue has become more important with the realization that building progressively better models will require massive investments in infrastructure and computing power. The key worry about Sam Altman is that under his leadership the company might prioritize pushing toward superintelligent AI without adequately safety testing its models or mitigating their risks. The new PBC structure likely won’t do much to quiet those concerns. “OpenAI’s announcement is effectively a commitment to maintain the status quo, with some changes around the margins,” Public Citizen co-president Robert Weissman said in a statement Monday night. “Under the new arrangement, OpenAI nonprofit will continue to have a controlling interest in the for-profit, now accompanied by some shareholding. Since the nonprofit has done nothing discernible in the past to control or in any way restrain the for-profit, there’s no reason to think it will do so in the future.” Elon Musk, an early founder of OpenAI, sued the company for violating its original nonprofit mission to develop human-level AI for the good of humanity. OpenAI says Musk, who owns a competing AI company, is simply trying to slow its progress. Both claims may be correct. OpenAI will continue releasing new models at a rapid clip, and it will keep the technical details of its best models tightly held as trade secrets. The nonprofit’s board of directors, which once challenged Altman’s commitment to safety and even managed to briefly oust him for dishonesty in late 2023, is now filled with people more aligned with the CEO’s goals. And the nonprofit board will receive a significant number of shares in the for-profit “public benefit corporation.” Microsoft will have to sign off on the new structure, but why wouldn’t it? Even though OpenAI’s relationship with Microsoft isn’t as tight or aligned as it once was, Microsoft still stands to benefit from maximizing the financial payoff of the large stake it holds in the AI startup. View the full article

Target Corp. is pushing back on media reports this week that it has changed its policies around self-checkout technology in response to shoplifting or customer dissatisfaction. A number of news outlets reported over the weekend and yesterday that the retail giant has limited self-checkout registers to 10 items or fewer, but Target made that announcement more than a year ago. “Target is not removing self-checkout,” a spokesperson told Fast Company when reached for comment. “We offer it in the vast majority of our stores and have no plans to change this.” The company declined to share additional details about how theft—or “shrink” in industry parlance—has shaped its self-checkout policies. At the time of its original announcement in March 2024, Target said its 10-items-or-fewer rule was based on “guest feedback.” In a fact sheet updated this week, Target said that its transaction times have improved at both human-run and automated checkout lanes since the policy was implemented and that customers typically like having both options. Does self-checkout actually impact inventory “shrink”? Some surveys have indicated that self-checkout options can and do contribute to shoplifting, as highlighted in a research roundup published by Capital One in February. Even as the technology has become commonplace over the last two decades, companies are still trying to strike the right balance between being technology forward and letting technology run roughshod over the customer experience—and sometimes they admittedly veer too far in the latter direction. At the same time, our perception of how bad the problem is might not always match reality: While 69% of respondents to a 2023 LendingTree survey said that they believed self-checkout lanes make it easier to steal, only 15% admitted to actually doing so. Is 15% bad enough to abandon self-checkout in favor of having more human cashiers? That’s up to retailers and their accountants to figure out. In the short term, don’t expect big changes at Target. The company only admits that it will “continue evolving to match guests with the right checkout options so they can get what they need.” View the full article