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Loyalty and referral programs are vital tools for businesses aiming to improve customer engagement and drive sales. Loyalty programs reward customers for repeat purchases, often through a points system, whereas referral programs incentivize satisfied customers to recommend the business to others. Comprehending how each program operates and their unique benefits can help you leverage them effectively. Let’s explore the mechanics of these programs and their impact on customer relationships and business growth. Key Takeaways Loyalty programs reward customers for repeat purchases, encouraging increased spending and engagement with the brand. Referral programs incentivize existing customers to recommend the business to friends and family, attracting new customers. Loyalty programs typically use a points system for rewards, while referral programs offer rewards for successful referrals that lead to purchases. Both programs enhance customer retention and acquisition, leading to higher lifetime value and sales for businesses. Effective implementation of these programs can significantly boost a company’s competitive advantage and community ties. What Are Loyalty and Referral Programs? Loyalty and referral programs are strategic tools that businesses use to cultivate customer engagement and drive sales. Loyalty programs reward you for repeat purchases, allowing you to earn points redeemable for products, cash back, or exclusive perks. This encourages you to spend more, as customers involved in loyalty programs typically spend 31% more per order. Conversely, referral programs incentivize you to recommend a business to your friends and family. You receive rewards only after your referral makes a purchase, which lowers customer acquisition costs because of the trust associated with personal recommendations. Remarkably, referral leads often have a 30% higher conversion rate than other marketing channels. When businesses implement both loyalty and referral programs, they create a synergistic effect, enhancing customer engagement, retention, and acquisition. By offering distinct rewards for each program, they effectively prevent overlap and maximize overall effectiveness. How Does a Loyalty Program Work? In a loyalty program, you earn points for every dollar you spend, allowing you to accumulate rewards over time. These points can be redeemed for benefits like discounts or exclusive offers, enhancing your shopping experience. As you reach certain spending levels, you may access even greater rewards, making the program more enticing and beneficial. Points Accumulation Process When you make a purchase at a participating store, you’re likely to earn points that contribute to your loyalty program benefits. Most loyalty program platforms allow you to accumulate points for every dollar spent, often providing bonus points during promotional periods. For example, if you spend $100, you might earn 100 points, with additional points for specific items. Your points are tracked through a loyalty card or your customer account, helping businesses monitor your spending habits and engagement. To encourage repeat purchases, many programs require you to reach a certain threshold of points before you can redeem rewards. It’s important to highlight that members typically spend 31% more per transaction than non-members, highlighting the effectiveness of points accumulation in driving sales. Redemption of Rewards Many customers find themselves enthusiastically anticipating the moment they can redeem their loyalty program points for rewards. In a loyalty rewards company, this process usually involves a points-based system. You earn points with each purchase, and after reaching a certain threshold, you can exchange them for valuable rewards. Here’s a quick overview of how reward redemption works: Reward Tier Points Required Discount 100 points Free Product 250 points Exclusive Offer 500 points Premium Reward 1000 points Programs often include time-sensitive offers, motivating you to redeem points swiftly, thereby driving higher spending. Research indicates that loyalty program members tend to spend more, enhancing overall engagement. How Does a Referral Program Work? How does a referral program work to benefit both businesses and customers? A referral program incentivizes you, as an existing customer, to recommend a business to others. When your referral leads to a successful purchase, both you and the new customer typically receive rewards, enhancing motivation for participation. This dual-sided incentive structure makes it more appealing for you to share your experiences. Notably, referrals generated through these programs have a 30% higher conversion rate than traditional leads, as personal recommendations are often more trusted. Successful examples, like Dropbox, show how effective these programs can be, as they grew from 100,000 to over 4 million registered users in just one year. To track these referrals, businesses use unique referral codes or links, allowing them to monitor effectiveness and customer behavior. The Difference Between Loyalty vs. Referral Programs When comparing loyalty and referral programs, it’s crucial to recognize their distinct purposes and goals. Loyalty programs focus on retaining existing customers by rewarding their repeat purchases, whereas referral programs aim to attract new customers through recommendations from current ones. Comprehending these differences in target audiences and reward structures can help you implement strategies that effectively boost customer engagement and acquisition. Purpose and Goals Grasping the purpose and goals of loyalty and referral programs is vital for businesses looking to optimize their customer engagement strategies. Loyalty programs aim to retain existing customers by rewarding their repeat purchases, enhancing their overall experience. Conversely, referral programs focus on acquiring new customers through advocacy from satisfied users. Meanwhile, loyalty program providers typically reward customers for their purchasing behavior, referral programs incentivize customers to recommend the brand, rewarding both the referrer and the referred. The success of loyalty programs is measured by metrics like customer retention and repeat purchase rates, whereas referral programs focus on referral conversion rates and customer acquisition costs. Recognizing these differences can help you tailor your approach to customer engagement effectively. Target Audience Differences Comprehending the differences in target audiences for loyalty and referral programs is key to maximizing their effectiveness. Loyalty programs primarily focus on existing customers, rewarding them for repeat purchases and encouraging their ongoing relationship with your brand. You’ll often use loyalty management software to track points or tier-based systems that improve customer lifetime value (CLV). Conversely, referral programs target these same customers but with the goal of leveraging their satisfaction to attract new customers. By incentivizing successful referrals, you not only reward the referrer but also engage the new customer. Grasping these distinctions helps you tailor your strategies, ensuring that your efforts effectively drive customer retention and acquisition while optimizing your marketing resources. Reward Structures Explained Comprehending the differences in reward structures between loyalty and referral programs is essential for effective implementation. Loyalty programs reward repeat purchases through a points-based system, enhancing customer retention by offering discounts or free products. Conversely, referral programs incentivize existing customers to bring in new clients, rewarding them after the referred customer makes a purchase. Loyalty programs boost Customer Lifetime Value (CLV). Referral programs aim to lower Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC). Rewards in loyalty programs can include tiered benefits, whereas referral rewards often benefit both the referrer and the new customer. Working with loyalty program vendors can help businesses design effective reward structures customized to their goals, ensuring a more engaged customer base. Benefits of Loyalty Programs Loyalty programs offer several key benefits that can greatly improve a business’s relationship with its customers. They can increase customer retention rates by up to 31%, encouraging repeat purchases and promoting brand loyalty. When customers enroll in these programs, they’re 64% more likely to increase their purchase frequency compared to non-members. Incentivizing purchases through rewards can considerably raise the average order value, as existing customers tend to spend more. Effective loyalty programs likewise improve customer lifetime value (CLV), helping businesses remain competitive. Furthermore, by creating a sense of exclusivity, these programs strengthen community ties, leading to improved engagement and satisfaction through personalized rewards. Benefit Description Increased Retention Up to 31% higher retention rates Higher Purchase Frequency 64% more likely to buy frequently Increased Average Order Value Existing customers spend more when incentivized Improved Customer Lifetime Value Enhanced competitiveness through higher CLV Strengthened Community Ties Greater engagement and satisfaction Benefits of Referral Programs Referral programs offer businesses a strategic approach to customer acquisition that can be both cost-effective and impactful. By leveraging the trust inherent in personal recommendations, you can attract new customers who are more likely to convert. The benefits of referral marketing are substantial: Referred customers often have a 16-25% higher customer lifetime value (CLV) than those acquired through traditional methods. Companies utilizing referral programs can see significant revenue boosts, like Ofra Cosmetics, which earned an additional $183,000 from their initiative. Over half of consumers express loyalty by recommending brands, reinforcing community and brand engagement. These programs not only lower acquisition costs but additionally nurture a sense of community among customers, enhancing public perception. With the potential for increased loyalty and revenue, implementing a referral program can be a smart investment for your business. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Difference Between a Referral Program and a Loyalty Program? A referral program focuses on acquiring new customers by incentivizing existing ones to recommend your business to others. Conversely, a loyalty program aims to retain current customers by rewarding them for repeat purchases. Fundamentally, referral programs ask how to bring in new clientele, whereas loyalty programs seek to encourage repeat buying behavior. Both strategies target different stages of the customer experience, making them crucial for your business’s growth and sustainability. What Is an Example of a Loyalty Program? An example of a loyalty program is Starbucks Rewards. When you join, you earn stars for every dollar you spend, which can be redeemed for free drinks and food items. This encourages you to return for future purchases. Similarly, Sephora‘s Beauty Insider rewards you with tiered benefits based on your spending. Both programs create incentives that promote customer engagement, improve retention, and finally lead to increased spending by their members. What Is an Example of a Referral Program? A solid example of a referral program is Dropbox, which effectively incentivized users to invite friends by offering extra storage for both parties. This strategy helped their user base skyrocket from 100,000 to over 4 million in just one year. Another notable example is Tesla, rewarding customers with free supercharging for referrals, enhancing word-of-mouth marketing. Such dual-sided incentives often boost engagement and conversions, leading to significant growth and increased customer lifetime value. What Are Loyalty Programs? Loyalty programs reward you for making repeat purchases, allowing you to earn points, which can be redeemed for discounts, products, or exclusive perks. By participating in these programs, you often find yourself spending more per transaction, as they encourage continued engagement with a brand. Businesses benefit greatly, experiencing increased purchase frequency and nurturing long-term relationships with their customers. Conclusion In conclusion, loyalty and referral programs are crucial tools for businesses aiming to improve customer engagement and drive sales. Loyalty programs reward repeat purchases, promoting customer retention, whereas referral programs incentivize existing customers to attract new clients. Comprehending the differences and benefits of each can help you implement effective strategies that boost revenue and strengthen customer relationships. By leveraging these programs, you can create a more loyal customer base and expand your market reach, ultimately benefiting your business growth. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Are Loyalty and Referral Programs?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

I’m off for the holiday, so here’s an older post from the archives. This was originally published in 2014. A reader writes: I started the position I’m in just 2 months ago as an account executive. Before this position, I was an admin assistant and volunteer coordinator elsewhere. I am also 23, I’ve been working since I was 14 and been in office roles since the age of 19 – meaning I’ve been working long enough to pick up on office politics, and to avoid dramas. Quick background of my current workplace: 12 full-time employees. Most employees have worked there for over 2 years. Some 6 years. Pretty much everyone is close but nice, and I’m the newest and the youngest. I’m sure the next youngest person is 30. Yesterday afternoon, I ran out to get a quick snack only to return to see the president of my company in my seat talking to my coworker/ supervisor. Okay, that’s fine – her back is to me so she didn’t realize I was back so I spoke up said “hello,” and since she didn’t budge, I grabbed my water bottle and went to the cooler to fill it up. I returned – placed it on my desk with a thud and home girl is still there! Okay… I decided to sit on a couch nearby. I sat there for 15 minutes, really beginning to fume. I pulled out my phone and ended up browsing, texting some friends – from the corner of my eye I counted amount of times she turned around to look at me. 3! At that 15-minute mark I got up, excused myself and reached behind her to unplug my laptop, then returned to the couch. Of course I was too pissed to really do any work – I pretended to. She got up 5 minutes later. No apology. I know for a fact she wouldn’t do that to anyone else. Even at my previous job as an admin assistant, my department supervisor was just the nastiest towards me, I was always overworked – I came in on weekends and very often stayed hours after work. In fact my position was terminated mainly because I didn’t reply to an email she sent me after hours until 10 a.m. the next morning. It’s all catty and unfair and it’s a shame because all of my past and current coworkers respect me enough and see that I am capable of delivering. It just seems like the C-levels are the ones not seeing that. It happens to a lot of my friends, and I just hate to see talent like me be disrespected because (a) we look/are young, and (b) we’re the newest or different a demographic. I refuse to tolerate things like this because that’s how patterns form. How can I command respect from people like this? I’m not trying to be best of buds, but I would appreciate being acknowledged. Note: This small company doesn’t really have an HR, but had I known better and have been less naïve at my previous job I would have went months before. Whoa. Going just on what you’ve written here, which is all I have to go on, this a wildly out of proportion reaction. Your company president sat at your desk for 15 minutes. While you fumed. While you got too angry to be able to work. She sat at your desk for 15 minutes. This is … not a big deal. Yes, it would have been more thoughtful for her to vacate your chair when you showed up. Yes, it’s annoying to be displaced for 15 minutes. But you know what? She’s the company president. It’s her call. It’s not the most polite call, but it’s just really not that big of a deal. She didn’t lock you out of a meeting or ask you to clean a toilet or insult your mom. She took your chair for 15 minutes. Now, should she have gotten up? Sure. But it’s hardly the slap in the face that you’re making it out to be. And your reaction here is so out of sync with what’s warranted that it’s actually a far bigger problem than the relatively small offense that she committed. I’ve had bosses borrow my chair, make me wait outside their office when they were late for meetings, keep me hanging on the phone while they ordered lunch, and signal that my time was less important than theirs in all sorts of ways. Because my time was less important than theirs. I didn’t take that personally. I did, at times, think to myself, “You really shouldn’t be paying me to wait here like this.” But it wasn’t personal, and I didn’t take it as a reflection on anything other than the prerogatives of their place in their hierarchy. If I’d taken it personally … well, I can’t even imagine the effect that would have had on my career. “Refusing to tolerate things like this” isn’t going to earn you respect. It’s going to earn you disrespect, because people will interpret that kind of reaction as being wildly out of touch. You’ll lose credibility too, and it won’t be there during the times when you really do need to be able to say “no, this isn’t okay.” Do good work, stand up for yourself when it matters, and let the little stuff go. The post the company president took my chair and I’m sick of being disrespected appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The president’s threats are an existential moment for the transatlantic allianceView the full article

If you’re looking to create videos without the hassle of complicated software, online movie makers can be a great solution. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces, extensive media libraries, and various templates to suit your needs. From FlexClip‘s professional tools to Kizoa’s diverse effects, each option has its unique strengths. Comprehending what each of these top five online movie makers offers can help you find the right fit for your projects. Let’s explore their features further. Key Takeaways FlexClip: Offers an intuitive platform with pre-made templates and a rich media library for easy video creation without watermarks. Kizoa: Combines photos and clips effortlessly with various templates and 3D effects, perfect for beginners learning video creation. Biteable: Features a drag-and-drop interface and beautiful templates, making it simple to create and share videos on social media. Animoto: Allows easy combination of clips, images, and music with a variety of templates for promotional and social media videos. Movie Maker Online: A completely free platform providing user-friendly editing tools and templates without registration, despite possible watermarks. FlexClip: Your Go-To Free Online Movie Maker FlexClip stands out as a premier choice among free online movie makers, offering an intuitive platform that caters to both novices and seasoned editors. This movie maker app features an array of pre-made templates, allowing you to quickly start your projects without needing extensive editing skills. With its rich media library filled with stock photos, videos, and music, you’ll find plenty of creative options to improve your work. FlexClip likewise provides professional editing tools, including cool shifts and effects, which enable you to raise the visual appeal of your videos. Plus, you can create your own film and export videos without watermarks, ensuring a polished final product that’s great for sharing and presentations. Kizoa: Create Stunning Videos With Ease If you’re looking for another reliable option to create stunning videos effortlessly, Kizoa should be on your radar. This free online movie maker allows you to combine photos and clips without any software downloads. With dozens of templates and hundreds of special effects, Kizoa makes it easy to craft visually appealing videos. You can explore multiple 3D effects and customize text options, enhancing your creative possibilities. Whereas the free version includes a watermark and some limitations on music resources, it still offers a robust set of editing tools. Kizoa is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to learn how to make a movie quickly and effectively, as you can edit your projects directly online. Biteable: Effortless Video Creation for Everyone Have you ever wished for a straightforward way to create professional-looking videos without the hassle of complicated software? Biteable is the answer. This user-friendly online movie maker lets you easily combine stock footage, animations, and audio with a simple drag-and-drop interface. With a variety of beautiful video templates, you can customize your project to fit any theme or style, whether it’s personal or business-related. If you’re wondering how can you make a movie quickly, Biteable’s rapid creation features and one-click sharing to social media make it simple. During the free version includes watermarks and requires registration, premium plans offer additional features without watermarks. For a hassle-free movie maker software download, Biteable is an excellent choice. Animoto: Making Video Creation Simple and Fun Animoto offers an efficient way to create engaging videos by allowing you to easily combine clips, images, text, and music through its intuitive drag-and-drop interface. This online movie maker provides a variety of rich video templates that cater to different themes, making it simple for you to customize your projects. You can quickly share your finished videos with a one-click feature, streamlining distribution across social media platforms. Feature Free Version Paid Version Watermark Yes No Video Quality Standard High Definition Professional Features Limited Extensive Customization Options Basic Advanced Storage Space Limited Unlimited Animoto is ideal for promotional videos, slideshows, and social media content, making it a versatile movie creator. Movie Maker Online: A Versatile Tool for Quick Edits Movie Maker Online stands out as a versatile tool that caters to users seeking quick and efficient video edits without the need for registration. This completely free online video editing platform provides a user-friendly experience, allowing you to: Effortlessly drag and drop clips, images, and audio Apply a variety of effects and changes Utilize text overlays for added context Choose from numerous templates to simplify editing Export videos in different resolutions, regardless of potential watermarks Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced editor, this movie maker online is ideal for creating short films, presentations, or social media content. With a straightforward interface, you can access everything you need without the hassle of a movie maker download. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Easiest Movie Maker to Use? The easiest movie maker to use is often considered to be FlexClip, thanks to its user-friendly interface and pre-made templates. You can start projects quickly without needing extensive editing skills. Animoto’s drag-and-drop feature likewise simplifies the process, allowing you to combine clips and images effortlessly. Kizoa and Biteable offer straightforward options too, catering to beginners with various templates and special effects, making video creation accessible for everyone, regardless of technical ability. What Is the Best Video Editor for Beginners? The best video editor for beginners often depends on your needs and platform. iMovie is excellent for Mac users, offering intuitive controls and advanced features like chroma keying. Adobe Premiere Rush simplifies editing with automatic features and 1080p exports in the free version. CapCut is user-friendly for both mobile and desktop, whereas Kdenlive provides multitrack editing as a free option. Canva’s web-based editor is similarly accessible, especially for those familiar with its graphic design tools. Which Platform Is Best for Making Videos? When deciding which platform is best for making videos, consider your needs. For quick, user-friendly options, platforms like FlexClip and Kizoa offer templates and intuitive interfaces. If you want rich features, Biteable and Animoto allow easy integration of clips and music. For free options, Movie Maker Online provides no-registration access, whereas CapCut stands out with advanced features and no watermarks. Canva combines video editing with graphic design, making it ideal for diverse projects. What Is the No. 1 Best Video Editor? The number one best video editor largely depends on your specific needs. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is often considered the industry standard because of its extensive features and collaboration options. If you’re focused on color grading, DaVinci Resolve excels in that area. For beginners, iMovie is user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with Apple devices. Wondershare Filmora and CyberLink PowerDirector likewise offer strong, accessible tools for amateur creators, supporting a broad range of editing styles. Conclusion To sum up, these top five online movie makers provide excellent options for users seeking to create videos with ease and efficiency. FlexClip offers professional tools, whereas Kizoa’s templates add a unique flair. Biteable’s drag-and-drop interface simplifies the process, making it accessible for everyone. Animoto focuses on engaging promotional content, and Movie Maker Online serves as a versatile tool for quick edits. By exploring these platforms, you can find the right solution for your video creation needs. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 5 Online Movie Makers for Effortless Video Creation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re looking to create videos without the hassle of complicated software, online movie makers can be a great solution. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces, extensive media libraries, and various templates to suit your needs. From FlexClip‘s professional tools to Kizoa’s diverse effects, each option has its unique strengths. Comprehending what each of these top five online movie makers offers can help you find the right fit for your projects. Let’s explore their features further. Key Takeaways FlexClip: Offers an intuitive platform with pre-made templates and a rich media library for easy video creation without watermarks. Kizoa: Combines photos and clips effortlessly with various templates and 3D effects, perfect for beginners learning video creation. Biteable: Features a drag-and-drop interface and beautiful templates, making it simple to create and share videos on social media. Animoto: Allows easy combination of clips, images, and music with a variety of templates for promotional and social media videos. Movie Maker Online: A completely free platform providing user-friendly editing tools and templates without registration, despite possible watermarks. FlexClip: Your Go-To Free Online Movie Maker FlexClip stands out as a premier choice among free online movie makers, offering an intuitive platform that caters to both novices and seasoned editors. This movie maker app features an array of pre-made templates, allowing you to quickly start your projects without needing extensive editing skills. With its rich media library filled with stock photos, videos, and music, you’ll find plenty of creative options to improve your work. FlexClip likewise provides professional editing tools, including cool shifts and effects, which enable you to raise the visual appeal of your videos. Plus, you can create your own film and export videos without watermarks, ensuring a polished final product that’s great for sharing and presentations. Kizoa: Create Stunning Videos With Ease If you’re looking for another reliable option to create stunning videos effortlessly, Kizoa should be on your radar. This free online movie maker allows you to combine photos and clips without any software downloads. With dozens of templates and hundreds of special effects, Kizoa makes it easy to craft visually appealing videos. You can explore multiple 3D effects and customize text options, enhancing your creative possibilities. Whereas the free version includes a watermark and some limitations on music resources, it still offers a robust set of editing tools. Kizoa is perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to learn how to make a movie quickly and effectively, as you can edit your projects directly online. Biteable: Effortless Video Creation for Everyone Have you ever wished for a straightforward way to create professional-looking videos without the hassle of complicated software? Biteable is the answer. This user-friendly online movie maker lets you easily combine stock footage, animations, and audio with a simple drag-and-drop interface. With a variety of beautiful video templates, you can customize your project to fit any theme or style, whether it’s personal or business-related. If you’re wondering how can you make a movie quickly, Biteable’s rapid creation features and one-click sharing to social media make it simple. During the free version includes watermarks and requires registration, premium plans offer additional features without watermarks. For a hassle-free movie maker software download, Biteable is an excellent choice. Animoto: Making Video Creation Simple and Fun Animoto offers an efficient way to create engaging videos by allowing you to easily combine clips, images, text, and music through its intuitive drag-and-drop interface. This online movie maker provides a variety of rich video templates that cater to different themes, making it simple for you to customize your projects. You can quickly share your finished videos with a one-click feature, streamlining distribution across social media platforms. Feature Free Version Paid Version Watermark Yes No Video Quality Standard High Definition Professional Features Limited Extensive Customization Options Basic Advanced Storage Space Limited Unlimited Animoto is ideal for promotional videos, slideshows, and social media content, making it a versatile movie creator. Movie Maker Online: A Versatile Tool for Quick Edits Movie Maker Online stands out as a versatile tool that caters to users seeking quick and efficient video edits without the need for registration. This completely free online video editing platform provides a user-friendly experience, allowing you to: Effortlessly drag and drop clips, images, and audio Apply a variety of effects and changes Utilize text overlays for added context Choose from numerous templates to simplify editing Export videos in different resolutions, regardless of potential watermarks Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced editor, this movie maker online is ideal for creating short films, presentations, or social media content. With a straightforward interface, you can access everything you need without the hassle of a movie maker download. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Easiest Movie Maker to Use? The easiest movie maker to use is often considered to be FlexClip, thanks to its user-friendly interface and pre-made templates. You can start projects quickly without needing extensive editing skills. Animoto’s drag-and-drop feature likewise simplifies the process, allowing you to combine clips and images effortlessly. Kizoa and Biteable offer straightforward options too, catering to beginners with various templates and special effects, making video creation accessible for everyone, regardless of technical ability. What Is the Best Video Editor for Beginners? The best video editor for beginners often depends on your needs and platform. iMovie is excellent for Mac users, offering intuitive controls and advanced features like chroma keying. Adobe Premiere Rush simplifies editing with automatic features and 1080p exports in the free version. CapCut is user-friendly for both mobile and desktop, whereas Kdenlive provides multitrack editing as a free option. Canva’s web-based editor is similarly accessible, especially for those familiar with its graphic design tools. Which Platform Is Best for Making Videos? When deciding which platform is best for making videos, consider your needs. For quick, user-friendly options, platforms like FlexClip and Kizoa offer templates and intuitive interfaces. If you want rich features, Biteable and Animoto allow easy integration of clips and music. For free options, Movie Maker Online provides no-registration access, whereas CapCut stands out with advanced features and no watermarks. Canva combines video editing with graphic design, making it ideal for diverse projects. What Is the No. 1 Best Video Editor? The number one best video editor largely depends on your specific needs. For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is often considered the industry standard because of its extensive features and collaboration options. If you’re focused on color grading, DaVinci Resolve excels in that area. For beginners, iMovie is user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with Apple devices. Wondershare Filmora and CyberLink PowerDirector likewise offer strong, accessible tools for amateur creators, supporting a broad range of editing styles. Conclusion To sum up, these top five online movie makers provide excellent options for users seeking to create videos with ease and efficiency. FlexClip offers professional tools, whereas Kizoa’s templates add a unique flair. Biteable’s drag-and-drop interface simplifies the process, making it accessible for everyone. Animoto focuses on engaging promotional content, and Movie Maker Online serves as a versatile tool for quick edits. By exploring these platforms, you can find the right solution for your video creation needs. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 5 Online Movie Makers for Effortless Video Creation" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Donald The President declines to rule out using force to seize control of Arctic islandView the full article

Founded in 2022, Perplexity offers an AI-powered search engine. AI tools offer a new way to search for factual information, where Perplexity stands out as an AI-native search engine that combines large language models with real-time web search. With a valuation of $20 billion and a growing user base of 30 million monthly active users, Perplexity is one of the fastest-growing tech startups challenging Google’s dominance with its AI-native search engine. From the number of Perplexity active users to company revenue, we’ll cover the latest stats about the popular AI search engine on this page. Key Perplexity Stats Perplexity has 30 million monthly active users. Perplexity processes around 600 million search queries a month. Lifetime downloads of Perplexity mobile apps reached 80.5 million to date. Perplexity’s annualized recurring revenue reportedly reached nearly $200 million. Perplexity Monthly Active Users According to the latest data, Perplexity AI has around 30 million monthly active users worldwide as of April 2025. That’s up from 10 million monthly active users reported in January 2024. Here’s a table with the Perplexity AI’s monthly active user base since March 2023: Date Perplexity AI Monthly Active Users March 2023 2 million January 2024 10 million April 2025 30 million Sources: The Verge, Perplexity AI, Perplexity AI Perplexity Search Volume According to Perplexity AI CEO, the search engine processes around 600 million queries per month as of April 2025. That’s an increase from 400 million reported in October 2024. Here’s an overview of Perplexity AI monthly search volume over time since X: Date Perplexity AI Monthly Search Queries July 2024 250 million October 2024 400 million April 2025 600 million Sources: The Verge, TechCrunch Perplexity Website Traffic According to the latest estimates, the Perplexity AI website received 239.7 million visits worldwide in November 2025, showing a 13.21% decrease compared to October 2025. Here’s a website traffic breakdown of the Perplexity AI website since September 2025: Date Perplexity AI Website Traffic September 2025 194.37 million October 2025 276.5 million November 2025 239.97 million Source: Semrush Perplexity App Downloads According to recent estimates, Perplexity AI app downloads across Google Play and App Store reached an estimated lifetime downloads of 80.5 million to date, including 5.1 million in November 2025 alone. Perplexity AI had the highest number of app downloads in October 2025, with 15.5 million monthly installs worldwide. Here’s a table with Perplexity AI app downloads over time since January 2024: Date Perplexity AI App Downloads January 2024 0.98 million February 2024 0.84 million March 2024 0.75 million April 2024 0.63 million May 2024 0.75 million June 2024 0.79 million July 2024 0.72 million August 2024 0.8 million September 2024 1 million October 2024 1.27 million November 2024 1.73 million December 2024 1.6 million January 2025 1.82 million February 2025 2.88 million March 2025 4 million April 2025 2.94 million May 2025 2.56 million June 2025 2.62 million July 2025 5.52 million August 2025 8.84 million September 2025 11.98 million October 2025 15.45 million November 2025 5.1 million Source: Appfigures Perplexity Revenue Perplexity’s annual recurring revenue reportedly reached nearly $200 million as of September 2025, up from $100 million in March 2025. Sources: TechCrunch, Perplexity Perplexity Funding Perplexity raised a total of $1.22 billion across 7 publicly disclosed funding rounds to date. Here’s a table with information on Perplexity AI’s latest funding rounds to date: Date Funding Round, Amount March 28, 2023 Series A, $28.8 million January 4, 2024 Series B, $73.6 million April 23, 2024 Series C, $63 million August 9, 2024 Series C, $250 million December 18, 2024 Series D, $500 million July 18, 2025 Series E, $100 million September 10, 2025 Series E, $200 million Source: Tracxn The post Perplexity AI User and Revenue Statistics appeared first on Backlinko. View the full article

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Coworker conflict can disrupt workplace harmony and productivity. To address it effectively, you should start by identifying issues early and recognizing signs of tension. Creating a safe space for open dialogue is essential, as is focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal traits. Comprehending different conflict management styles can likewise guide your approach. By following these steps, you can cultivate a more collaborative environment, but what happens when conflicts arise repeatedly? Key Takeaways Identify subtle cues of conflict early to prevent escalation and address issues proactively. Create a safe space for communication to encourage open dialogue and minimize defensiveness. Focus on specific behaviors rather than personal traits to reduce defensiveness during discussions. Engage in problem-solving collaboratively, targeting the situation instead of personal grievances. Follow up after resolution to reinforce accountability and assess adherence to agreements made. Identify Workplace Conflict Early Identifying workplace conflict early is crucial, as unresolved issues can escalate and lead to larger problems within a team. Conflicts often start with subtle cues like passive resistance, miscommunication, or changes in body language. By recognizing these signs early, you can address issues before they spiral out of control. A recent survey revealed that 23% of respondents left jobs because of workplace conflict, emphasizing the need for timely intervention. If you’re wondering how to deal with coworker conflict, consider how you resolve a conflict with a coworker effectively. Early intervention not only prevents emotional buildup but additionally encourages a culture of openness, enhancing team dynamics. Furthermore, addressing conflicts swiftly can save organizations significant costs, as American Express businesses lose $359 billion annually because of unresolved issues. Prioritizing early identification allows you to maintain a healthier work environment and improve overall team performance. Create a Safe Space to Talk To create a safe space for conversations, start by choosing a neutral environment, like a quiet meeting room or a private Zoom call. This setting encourages open communication, allowing both parties to express their thoughts without interruptions. Neutral Meeting Environment Creating a neutral meeting environment is essential for nurturing constructive discussions when conflicts arise among coworkers. A quiet meeting room or a private Zoom call can set the stage for comfortable dialogue, reducing distractions and tensions. Before the meeting, clearly communicate its goals to encourage participants to focus on resolution rather than defensiveness. This preparation helps minimize fear of misunderstanding or dismissal, which often hinders effective communication. When managers cultivate a safe space for these discussions, they considerably reduce emotional buildup and contribute to a culture of openness within their teams. By prioritizing a neutral setting, you pave the way for respectful conversations, ultimately leading to more productive conflict resolution and improved relationships among coworkers. Encourage Open Communication How can open communication help resolve coworker conflicts? Creating a safe space for dialogue is vital. By setting up neutral environments, like quiet meeting rooms or private Zoom calls, you encourage honest exchanges. Allowing both parties to share their perspectives without interruptions reduces defensiveness and promotes comprehension. Clearly stating the meeting’s goal improves collaboration, setting the tone for constructive discussions. This culture of respect is fundamental for effectively addressing conflicts, preventing emotional buildup that may lead to further issues. As a manager, maintaining this atmosphere of safety and openness will likely yield positive outcomes, as employees will feel supported in voicing their concerns. In the end, open communication can lead to resolutions and improved workplace relationships. Use Behavior-Based Conflict Resolution, Not Personal Attacks When conflicts arise at work, it’s essential to focus on actions rather than personal traits. By addressing specific behaviors, like saying, “The team struggled to communicate effectively,” you encourage a more constructive dialogue. This approach not just reduces defensiveness but likewise promotes clarity, making it easier to find solutions without resorting to personal attacks. Focus on Actions Only Focusing on actions rather than personal attributes is essential for effectively resolving coworker conflicts. When you concentrate on behaviors, you reduce defensiveness and promote constructive dialogue. Here are some strategies to reflect upon: Use behavior-based language to emphasize the issue. State specific actions and their consequences, like “The project was delayed because of differing views.” Separate the person from their actions to lower defensiveness. Encourage accountability by discussing the impact of specific behaviors. Aim for collaboration by keeping discussions focused on solutions. Avoid Personal Labels To effectively resolve conflicts with coworkers, avoiding personal labels is crucial since it helps maintain a constructive atmosphere. Emphasizing behaviors rather than personal attributes can greatly reduce defensiveness during discussions. For instance, instead of saying, “You never take others’ ideas seriously,” frame the issue as, “The client presentation was delayed because of differing views.” This approach targets the situation rather than attacking personal failings. Personal attacks can escalate conflict and hinder resolution, so it’s important to separate the individual from their actions. By using behavior-based language, you’re more likely to engage in problem-solving rather than getting entrenched in personal grievances. This aligns with the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model, highlighting the significance of effective communication styles in resolving disputes. Promote Constructive Dialogue Promoting constructive dialogue is key to resolving conflicts effectively in the workplace. By focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal attacks, you can encourage productive conversations. Here are some tips to help you engage in constructive dialogue: Discuss actions, not character traits. Use “I” statements to express feelings, like “I feel ignored” instead of “You never listen.” Aim to understand the other person’s perspective. Stay focused on the issue at hand to avoid sidetracking the conversation. Maintain a respectful tone, separating the person from the problem. This behavior-based approach lowers defensiveness and nurtures collaboration, leading to a healthier work environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Understand Different Conflict Management Styles at Work Conflict management styles play an important role in how disputes are handled in the workplace. The Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model identifies five key styles: Avoiding, Accommodating, Competing, Compromising, and Collaborating. Avoiding may lead to unresolved tensions, whereas Accommodating can cause individuals to feel unheard if overused. Competing allows for quick decisions in crises but risks damaging relationships, making context vital before choosing this approach. Compromising seeks a middle ground, which can be effective but may not fully satisfy either party. Collaborating, in contrast, encourages win-win solutions by valuing both goals and relationships, making it ideal for complex issues requiring input from various stakeholders. Follow Up After Resolving Workplace Conflict Following up after resolving workplace conflict is essential, as it helps guarantee that all parties are genuinely on the same page. A few days after the resolution, check in with the involved coworkers to verify that agreements are being upheld and to address any emerging concerns. Here are some key reasons to prioritize follow-up: Assess adherence to agreements made during conflict resolution. Identify any new issues that may have surfaced. Reinforce accountability and commitment to a positive work environment. Encourage open dialogue, demonstrating that both perspectives are valued. Strengthen relationships and improve team cohesion over time. Regular follow-ups not only show your commitment to maintaining a healthy workplace but also help prevent future conflicts from escalating. Train Managers to Handle Conflict Resolution Effectively Effective conflict resolution is a critical skill that managers must develop to maintain a harmonious workplace. Training equips you with vital skills, enabling you to respond calmly and mediate disputes effectively. Comprehending various conflict styles, as outlined in the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model, allows you to tailor your approach to specific situations, leading to more positive outcomes. Regular training updates keep you prepared to handle evolving workplace dynamics, minimizing the risk of unresolved conflicts that can cost organizations up to $359 billion annually. Furthermore, effective conflict resolution training cultivates a collaborative environment where employees feel heard and supported, eventually reducing the need for HR intervention. This investment not merely benefits you as a manager but contributes to a culture of open communication and accountability, crucial for maintaining a healthy work environment. Prioritizing conflict resolution training can greatly improve team morale and productivity, ensuring a more cohesive workplace. Turn Workplace Conflict Into a Growth Opportunity When you view workplace disagreements as opportunities for growth, you open the door to creativity and innovation. Embracing conflict can transform your team dynamics and improve overall performance. Here are some ways to turn conflict into a growth opportunity: Encourage open dialogue to share diverse perspectives. Identify blind spots and hidden frustrations through proactive resolution. Cultivate resilience and adaptability by learning from each situation. Reflect on conflicts to understand their causes and lessons learned. Strengthen team cohesion by collaborating on improved solutions. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Conflict Management? The 5 C’s of conflict management are Clarity, Communication, Collaboration, Compromise, and Commitment. You start with Clarity by identifying the conflict’s root causes. Next, you engage in Communication, allowing everyone to share their views openly. Collaboration involves working together for solutions that satisfy all parties. Compromise means being willing to make concessions, whereas Commitment requires dedication to implementing solutions. Together, these principles help you manage conflicts effectively and maintain positive relationships. How to Handle a Conflict With a Coworker? To handle a conflict with a coworker, start by analyzing the situation calmly. Separate your feelings from the issue to gain clarity. Schedule a neutral meeting to discuss the matter, ensuring both of you feel safe. Focus on specific behaviors rather than personal attacks to encourage constructive dialogue. Use the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model to understand your styles, and follow up to reinforce any agreements made, promoting a healthier work environment. What Are the Five 5 Strategies to Resolve Workplace Conflict? To resolve workplace conflict, you can use five strategies from the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model. First, Avoiding is useful for low-stakes issues. Second, Competing prioritizes your goals in urgent situations. Third, Accommodating lets you yield to others, which can ease tensions. Fourth, Compromising requires both parties to give up something for a mutual solution. Finally, Collaborating seeks a win-win outcome, focusing on both goals and relationships to guarantee successful resolution. What Are the 3 C’s of Conflict Resolution? The 3 C’s of conflict resolution are Communication, Collaboration, and Compromise. Effective Communication involves clearly expressing your thoughts and actively listening to others, which helps prevent misunderstandings. Collaboration means working together to find solutions that satisfy everyone involved, nurturing teamwork. Compromise requires each party to give up something to reach an agreement that meets the needs of all. Utilizing these principles creates a more harmonious work environment and improves relationships among coworkers. Conclusion Effectively managing coworker conflict is crucial for a productive workplace. By recognizing issues early, promoting open communication, and focusing on behaviors rather than personal attributes, you can facilitate resolution. Comprehending different conflict management styles and following up on discussions guarantees lasting solutions. Furthermore, training managers in conflict resolution equips them to handle disputes more effectively. In the end, viewing conflict as an opportunity for growth can improve team dynamics and contribute to a more positive work environment. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Tips to Deal With Coworker Conflict Effectively" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Coworker conflict can disrupt workplace harmony and productivity. To address it effectively, you should start by identifying issues early and recognizing signs of tension. Creating a safe space for open dialogue is essential, as is focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal traits. Comprehending different conflict management styles can likewise guide your approach. By following these steps, you can cultivate a more collaborative environment, but what happens when conflicts arise repeatedly? Key Takeaways Identify subtle cues of conflict early to prevent escalation and address issues proactively. Create a safe space for communication to encourage open dialogue and minimize defensiveness. Focus on specific behaviors rather than personal traits to reduce defensiveness during discussions. Engage in problem-solving collaboratively, targeting the situation instead of personal grievances. Follow up after resolution to reinforce accountability and assess adherence to agreements made. Identify Workplace Conflict Early Identifying workplace conflict early is crucial, as unresolved issues can escalate and lead to larger problems within a team. Conflicts often start with subtle cues like passive resistance, miscommunication, or changes in body language. By recognizing these signs early, you can address issues before they spiral out of control. A recent survey revealed that 23% of respondents left jobs because of workplace conflict, emphasizing the need for timely intervention. If you’re wondering how to deal with coworker conflict, consider how you resolve a conflict with a coworker effectively. Early intervention not only prevents emotional buildup but additionally encourages a culture of openness, enhancing team dynamics. Furthermore, addressing conflicts swiftly can save organizations significant costs, as American Express businesses lose $359 billion annually because of unresolved issues. Prioritizing early identification allows you to maintain a healthier work environment and improve overall team performance. Create a Safe Space to Talk To create a safe space for conversations, start by choosing a neutral environment, like a quiet meeting room or a private Zoom call. This setting encourages open communication, allowing both parties to express their thoughts without interruptions. Neutral Meeting Environment Creating a neutral meeting environment is essential for nurturing constructive discussions when conflicts arise among coworkers. A quiet meeting room or a private Zoom call can set the stage for comfortable dialogue, reducing distractions and tensions. Before the meeting, clearly communicate its goals to encourage participants to focus on resolution rather than defensiveness. This preparation helps minimize fear of misunderstanding or dismissal, which often hinders effective communication. When managers cultivate a safe space for these discussions, they considerably reduce emotional buildup and contribute to a culture of openness within their teams. By prioritizing a neutral setting, you pave the way for respectful conversations, ultimately leading to more productive conflict resolution and improved relationships among coworkers. Encourage Open Communication How can open communication help resolve coworker conflicts? Creating a safe space for dialogue is vital. By setting up neutral environments, like quiet meeting rooms or private Zoom calls, you encourage honest exchanges. Allowing both parties to share their perspectives without interruptions reduces defensiveness and promotes comprehension. Clearly stating the meeting’s goal improves collaboration, setting the tone for constructive discussions. This culture of respect is fundamental for effectively addressing conflicts, preventing emotional buildup that may lead to further issues. As a manager, maintaining this atmosphere of safety and openness will likely yield positive outcomes, as employees will feel supported in voicing their concerns. In the end, open communication can lead to resolutions and improved workplace relationships. Use Behavior-Based Conflict Resolution, Not Personal Attacks When conflicts arise at work, it’s essential to focus on actions rather than personal traits. By addressing specific behaviors, like saying, “The team struggled to communicate effectively,” you encourage a more constructive dialogue. This approach not just reduces defensiveness but likewise promotes clarity, making it easier to find solutions without resorting to personal attacks. Focus on Actions Only Focusing on actions rather than personal attributes is essential for effectively resolving coworker conflicts. When you concentrate on behaviors, you reduce defensiveness and promote constructive dialogue. Here are some strategies to reflect upon: Use behavior-based language to emphasize the issue. State specific actions and their consequences, like “The project was delayed because of differing views.” Separate the person from their actions to lower defensiveness. Encourage accountability by discussing the impact of specific behaviors. Aim for collaboration by keeping discussions focused on solutions. Avoid Personal Labels To effectively resolve conflicts with coworkers, avoiding personal labels is crucial since it helps maintain a constructive atmosphere. Emphasizing behaviors rather than personal attributes can greatly reduce defensiveness during discussions. For instance, instead of saying, “You never take others’ ideas seriously,” frame the issue as, “The client presentation was delayed because of differing views.” This approach targets the situation rather than attacking personal failings. Personal attacks can escalate conflict and hinder resolution, so it’s important to separate the individual from their actions. By using behavior-based language, you’re more likely to engage in problem-solving rather than getting entrenched in personal grievances. This aligns with the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model, highlighting the significance of effective communication styles in resolving disputes. Promote Constructive Dialogue Promoting constructive dialogue is key to resolving conflicts effectively in the workplace. By focusing on specific behaviors rather than personal attacks, you can encourage productive conversations. Here are some tips to help you engage in constructive dialogue: Discuss actions, not character traits. Use “I” statements to express feelings, like “I feel ignored” instead of “You never listen.” Aim to understand the other person’s perspective. Stay focused on the issue at hand to avoid sidetracking the conversation. Maintain a respectful tone, separating the person from the problem. This behavior-based approach lowers defensiveness and nurtures collaboration, leading to a healthier work environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Understand Different Conflict Management Styles at Work Conflict management styles play an important role in how disputes are handled in the workplace. The Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model identifies five key styles: Avoiding, Accommodating, Competing, Compromising, and Collaborating. Avoiding may lead to unresolved tensions, whereas Accommodating can cause individuals to feel unheard if overused. Competing allows for quick decisions in crises but risks damaging relationships, making context vital before choosing this approach. Compromising seeks a middle ground, which can be effective but may not fully satisfy either party. Collaborating, in contrast, encourages win-win solutions by valuing both goals and relationships, making it ideal for complex issues requiring input from various stakeholders. Follow Up After Resolving Workplace Conflict Following up after resolving workplace conflict is essential, as it helps guarantee that all parties are genuinely on the same page. A few days after the resolution, check in with the involved coworkers to verify that agreements are being upheld and to address any emerging concerns. Here are some key reasons to prioritize follow-up: Assess adherence to agreements made during conflict resolution. Identify any new issues that may have surfaced. Reinforce accountability and commitment to a positive work environment. Encourage open dialogue, demonstrating that both perspectives are valued. Strengthen relationships and improve team cohesion over time. Regular follow-ups not only show your commitment to maintaining a healthy workplace but also help prevent future conflicts from escalating. Train Managers to Handle Conflict Resolution Effectively Effective conflict resolution is a critical skill that managers must develop to maintain a harmonious workplace. Training equips you with vital skills, enabling you to respond calmly and mediate disputes effectively. Comprehending various conflict styles, as outlined in the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model, allows you to tailor your approach to specific situations, leading to more positive outcomes. Regular training updates keep you prepared to handle evolving workplace dynamics, minimizing the risk of unresolved conflicts that can cost organizations up to $359 billion annually. Furthermore, effective conflict resolution training cultivates a collaborative environment where employees feel heard and supported, eventually reducing the need for HR intervention. This investment not merely benefits you as a manager but contributes to a culture of open communication and accountability, crucial for maintaining a healthy work environment. Prioritizing conflict resolution training can greatly improve team morale and productivity, ensuring a more cohesive workplace. Turn Workplace Conflict Into a Growth Opportunity When you view workplace disagreements as opportunities for growth, you open the door to creativity and innovation. Embracing conflict can transform your team dynamics and improve overall performance. Here are some ways to turn conflict into a growth opportunity: Encourage open dialogue to share diverse perspectives. Identify blind spots and hidden frustrations through proactive resolution. Cultivate resilience and adaptability by learning from each situation. Reflect on conflicts to understand their causes and lessons learned. Strengthen team cohesion by collaborating on improved solutions. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the 5 C’s of Conflict Management? The 5 C’s of conflict management are Clarity, Communication, Collaboration, Compromise, and Commitment. You start with Clarity by identifying the conflict’s root causes. Next, you engage in Communication, allowing everyone to share their views openly. Collaboration involves working together for solutions that satisfy all parties. Compromise means being willing to make concessions, whereas Commitment requires dedication to implementing solutions. Together, these principles help you manage conflicts effectively and maintain positive relationships. How to Handle a Conflict With a Coworker? To handle a conflict with a coworker, start by analyzing the situation calmly. Separate your feelings from the issue to gain clarity. Schedule a neutral meeting to discuss the matter, ensuring both of you feel safe. Focus on specific behaviors rather than personal attacks to encourage constructive dialogue. Use the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model to understand your styles, and follow up to reinforce any agreements made, promoting a healthier work environment. What Are the Five 5 Strategies to Resolve Workplace Conflict? To resolve workplace conflict, you can use five strategies from the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model. First, Avoiding is useful for low-stakes issues. Second, Competing prioritizes your goals in urgent situations. Third, Accommodating lets you yield to others, which can ease tensions. Fourth, Compromising requires both parties to give up something for a mutual solution. Finally, Collaborating seeks a win-win outcome, focusing on both goals and relationships to guarantee successful resolution. What Are the 3 C’s of Conflict Resolution? The 3 C’s of conflict resolution are Communication, Collaboration, and Compromise. Effective Communication involves clearly expressing your thoughts and actively listening to others, which helps prevent misunderstandings. Collaboration means working together to find solutions that satisfy everyone involved, nurturing teamwork. Compromise requires each party to give up something to reach an agreement that meets the needs of all. Utilizing these principles creates a more harmonious work environment and improves relationships among coworkers. Conclusion Effectively managing coworker conflict is crucial for a productive workplace. By recognizing issues early, promoting open communication, and focusing on behaviors rather than personal attributes, you can facilitate resolution. Comprehending different conflict management styles and following up on discussions guarantees lasting solutions. Furthermore, training managers in conflict resolution equips them to handle disputes more effectively. In the end, viewing conflict as an opportunity for growth can improve team dynamics and contribute to a more positive work environment. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Tips to Deal With Coworker Conflict Effectively" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A reader writes: I manage a team of four. One of my staff members, Jeff, asked to go to a conference that was about a five-hour drive away. I approved the request as the conference would be good for his professional development. Three other staff members from our closely connected teams were also going. Jeff registered for the conference. A couple weeks later, he asked me about booking a flight to it. I was surprised by this, as the conference was a reasonable driving distance. I explained that the department would rent a van and the attendees would drive there together. (Our department wants to minimize expenses where reasonable, so this is norm unless it doesn’t make sense logistically or financially.) He pushed back with a couple reasons why he wanted to fly, such as it would save time and he didn’t feel comfortable driving. I said that flying wouldn’t save time since the airport is at least an hour away, you need a time buffer to go through security, etc., and the flight is two hours. I also knew the others going were comfortable being the drivers. He then said that he didn’t want to be in a car for long periods of time since he sometimes has digestive issues. I empathized but suggested he make up a reason why he might need more rest stops than usual and give the others a heads-up at the start of the trip. Something like, “Sometimes I get woozy when I’m in the car for a while so I need to take more rest stops than usual.” This was not acceptable to Jeff, and he ultimately decided not to attend the conference. It wasn’t a huge issue, but he was salty about it for a while and complained to a few other people. Is it reasonable to expect employees to drive to conferences? Are there situations other than distance and cost where we should make an exception to our norm? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. The post my employee was upset that I told him to drive, not fly, to a conference appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

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Three reasons that hourly billing fails. By Hitendra Patil Client Accounting Services: The Definitive Success Guide Go PRO for members-only access to more Hitendra Patil. View the full article

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BONUS: Sample client feedback letter. By Domenick J. Esposito 8 Steps to Great Go PRO for members-only access to more Dom Esposito. View the full article

BONUS: Sample client feedback letter. By Domenick J. Esposito 8 Steps to Great Go PRO for members-only access to more Dom Esposito. View the full article

If you’re passionate about crafting, knowing where to shop can make all the difference. The USA is home to several top craft shops that cater to various needs and budgets. For instance, Michaels offers a vast selection of supplies, whereas JOANN Fabrics specializes in fabrics and tools. Furthermore, Blick Art Materials and Jerry’s Artarama provide high-quality options for serious artists. Each store has its unique strengths, ensuring every crafter finds the right materials. Let’s explore what each of these top shops offers. Key Takeaways Michaels offers a vast array of crafting products and classes, making it a premier destination for all crafting enthusiasts. JOANN Fabrics provides an extensive selection of fabrics and specialized craft tools, perfect for fabric lovers and DIY projects. Blick Art Materials specializes in high-quality art supplies, ideal for artists seeking professional-grade materials and fast delivery options. Five Below features budget-friendly crafting essentials, with all items priced at $5 and under, catering to kids and hobbyists alike. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff offers affordable 2D art supplies and free educational resources, making it a favorite for serious artists on a budget. Michaels: The Ultimate Crafting Destination When you’re looking for an extensive destination for all your crafting needs, Michaels stands out as the largest arts and crafts retail chain in the United States. This crafty shop offers a vast selection of craftsmanship products, including painting supplies, drawing materials, and seasonal décor. You’ll find everything from knitting and crochet supplies to embroidery kits, catering to both amateurs and professionals. Michaels frequently provides in-store and online coupons, allowing you to save on your purchases. Furthermore, the store hosts various classes and workshops, including a Kids Club program that engages younger crafters. With its strong presence across the country, Michaels aims to be your one-stop shop for completing all your creative projects efficiently. JOANN Fabrics: Your Go-To for Fabrics and More JOANN Fabrics stands as a prominent choice for crafters seeking a wide array of materials and supplies. With over 800 locations across the U.S., it’s a convenient craft shop USA for crafters of all levels. You’ll find a diverse selection of quilting cotton, denim, and various fabric blends, perfect for sewing projects. Beyond fabric, JOANN offers specialized craft tools, including jewelry-making materials, scrapbooking necessities, and tie-dye kits, ensuring you have everything you need for your projects. Their crafters website features custom pattern options, along with frequent sales and promotions. Moreover, JOANN hosts workshops and events that engage the crafting community, allowing you to learn new skills as you connect with fellow enthusiasts. Blick Art Materials: High-Quality Supplies for Artists Blick Art Materials serves as a leading destination for artists seeking high-quality supplies, offering a vast selection customized to both professionals and hobbyists. With over 60 locations across the United States, including craft shops in New York, it’s easy to find crucial art materials. Their inventory features a thorough range of painting, drawing, and specialty supplies, ensuring you have everything you need. For those shopping online, Blick emphasizes customer service with fast delivery options available through their USA crafters website. Furthermore, their craft store in Vancouver, WA, provides local access to top brands. You can likewise explore free art lesson videos on their website, helping you refine your skills and discover new techniques, making Blick a valuable resource for any artist. Jerry’s Artarama: A Haven for Serious Artists When you’re serious about your art, Jerry’s Artarama stands out as a top choice for all your 2D supply needs. With competitive pricing on a wide range of quality brands, you can stock up without overspending, whereas their user-friendly website makes it simple to locate specific materials. Plus, you can improve your skills with free educational resources like art lesson videos, ensuring you’re always advancing your craft. Competitive Pricing Options For serious artists seeking quality materials without breaking the bank, Jerry’s Artarama stands out as a prime destination due to its competitive pricing options. Here are some reasons why you should consider shopping there: Brand Variety: You’ll find professional-grade products from well-known brands similar to those at Blick, ensuring you get quality without the premium price tag. Discount Opportunities: By signing up for emails, you can frequently access exclusive discounts, helping you save even more on your vital supplies. Educational Resources: Jerry’s offers free online art lesson videos, giving you valuable tools to improve your skills as you keep your budget intact. With its focus on affordability and quality, Jerry’s Artarama is a smart choice for serious artists. Diverse Art Supplies Jerry’s Artarama serves as a thorough resource for serious artists seeking a diverse range of high-quality art supplies customized to their specific needs. Specializing in 2D art materials, you’ll find professional-grade brands that cater to various artistic preferences. Whether you’re into painting, drawing, ceramics, or bookbinding, their extensive selection guarantees you have the right tools for your projects. The user-friendly website simplifies navigation, allowing you to quickly locate the supplies you need. Furthermore, competitive pricing makes Jerry’s a practical choice for artists wanting quality without overspending. Their commitment to providing premium materials means you can focus on your creativity, knowing you have access to the best resources available in the market. Free Educational Resources Artists looking to improve their skills can take advantage of the free educational resources offered by Jerry’s Artarama, which include a variety of art lesson videos available on their website. These resources cater to all skill levels, making them accessible for everyone. Here are three key features you can explore: Diverse Video Library: Access a wide range of tutorials covering techniques in painting, drawing, and more. User-Friendly Navigation: Easily find the specific resources you need with an intuitive website layout. Regular Updates: Sign up for email notifications to stay informed about new educational videos and discounts on art supplies. With these resources, you can boost your artistry as you benefit from Jerry’s competitive pricing on high-quality materials. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff: Affordable Options for Art Supplies When you’re on the hunt for affordable art supplies, Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff stands out as a reliable destination that caters to both novice and experienced creators. Specializing in 2D art supplies, this store is perfect for anyone seeking budget-friendly materials. You’ll find organized categories like painting, drawing, ceramics, bookbinding, and paper supplies, which simplify your shopping experience. Pricing is competitive with other major art.com retailers, ensuring you receive quality products at reasonable rates. The user-friendly website allows for quick navigation to specific items, streamlining your online shopping. Furthermore, you can access free art lesson videos that improve your skills as you utilize the supplies you purchase. Cheap Joe’s truly makes art accessible for everyone. Five Below: Budget-Friendly Crafting Essentials If you’re looking for budget-friendly craft supplies, Five Below is a great option, offering a variety of items priced at $5 and under. This store makes it easy to find affordable options for kids’ craft projects, like coloring tools and craft kits, which are perfect for family activities. Furthermore, you’ll discover seasonal craft supplies that make it simple to celebrate holidays and events creatively without breaking the bank. Affordable Craft Supplies Five Below stands out as a go-to destination for those seeking affordable craft supplies, with all items priced at $5 or under. This budget-friendly store offers a variety of vital crafting materials, making it an excellent choice for both casual hobbyists and serious crafters. You can find: Coloring Tools: Markers, colored pencils, and crayons for all your drawing needs. Craft Kits: Pre-packaged projects that include everything you need to create something special. DIY Project Materials: A range of items like foam sheets, beads, and stickers for personalized creations. With locations across the U.S. and frequently updated inventory, Five Below provides convenient access to trendy and inexpensive crafting supplies, ensuring you’re always ready for your next project. Kids’ Craft Projects For parents seeking budget-friendly options for kids’ craft projects, Five Below offers an impressive selection of supplies and kits that cater to youthful creativity. With all items priced at $5 and under, you can easily stock up on vital crafting tools. From DIY craft kits to coloring supplies, there’s something for every child’s interest. The store frequently updates its inventory, providing fresh materials aligned with current trends. Furthermore, themed craft kits are perfect for group activities, ideal for birthday parties or school projects. Here’s a quick overview of the types of items you can find: Item Type Price Range Purpose Craft Kits $5 Complete projects for kids Coloring Tools $1-$5 Encourage artistic expression Seasonal Items $1-$5 Crafting based on current holidays DIY Supplies $1-$5 Basic materials for creative projects Seasonal Craft Deals As the seasons change, so do the crafting opportunities at Five Below, where shoppers can find an array of seasonal craft deals designed to various holidays and events. This budget-friendly store offers everything priced at $5 or under, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious crafters. When you visit, you can expect: Holiday-Themed Supplies: Items personalized for Halloween, Christmas, and Easter, allowing you to create festive decorations. DIY Kits: Ready-to-use kits that include all required materials for quick and easy projects. Basic Craft Supplies: Necessities like markers, glue, and paper, perfect for spontaneous crafting without overspending. With frequent updates to their inventory, Five Below is your go-to spot for affordable crafting needs. ArtSupply.com: Streamlined Shopping for Artists Though many art supply retailers overwhelm customers with countless options, ArtSupply.com stands out by offering a streamlined shopping experience customized for both amateur and professional artists. The website focuses on high-quality art supplies, making it easy for you to find crucial materials like paint, brushes, and canvas. With a carefully curated selection, ArtSupply.com limits its stock to guarantee you’re not bogged down by excessive choices, allowing for quicker decision-making. Its user-friendly layout facilitates efficient navigation, so you can swiftly locate specific items without frustration. Committed to enhancing your overall shopping experience, ArtSupply.com provides reliable materials for various art projects, making it a go-to destination for artists seeking convenience and quality in one place. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Most Popular Craft Stores? When considering the most popular craft stores, Michaels stands out for its extensive selection of arts and crafts supplies. JOANN Fabrics is a favorite for fabric and quilting needs, whereas Blick Art Materials offers professional-grade art supplies. Hobby Lobby attracts shoppers with its diverse craft items and home decor. Furthermore, online retailers like Craft Supply Depot provide unique products and exceptional customer service, catering to the growing demand for e-commerce in the crafting community. Where to Shop Instead of Hobby Lobby? If you’re looking for alternatives to Hobby Lobby, consider Michaels for a wide range of arts and crafts supplies, including seasonal decor. JOANN Fabrics is ideal for sewing and textile projects, offering various fabrics and materials. For higher-quality art supplies, Blick Art Materials caters to both amateurs and professionals. If you prefer online shopping, Craft Supply Depot provides unique items and excellent customer service. Each option serves different crafting needs effectively. Is Michaels or Hobby Lobby Better for Crafts? When deciding between Michaels and Hobby Lobby for crafts, consider what you need. Michaels offers a wider variety of supplies, including seasonal decor and in-store classes, which can improve your crafting experience. Conversely, Hobby Lobby frequently has sales and features unique home decor items. If you’re looking for competitive pricing and religious-themed materials, Hobby Lobby might be better. In the end, your choice depends on your specific crafting needs and preferences. How Many People Craft in the US? About 60% of Americans engage in some form of crafting, reflecting a significant interest in DIY projects. This translates to over 25 million households regularly participating in crafting activities, showcasing its popularity across various demographics. The crafting industry is valued at approximately $44 billion, highlighting its economic impact. Social media platforms have additionally boosted participation by 20%, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, where around 70% report involvement in DIY and handmade projects. Conclusion To summarize, exploring these top craft shops across the USA can greatly improve your creative projects. Michaels offers a vast selection of supplies, whereas JOANN Fabrics specializes in diverse textiles. For artists, Blick Art Materials and Jerry’s Artarama provide high-quality options. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff delivers value, and Five Below guarantees affordability for all crafters. Finally, ArtSupply.com streamlines your shopping experience. Each of these stores caters to different crafting needs, making them crucial destinations for enthusiasts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Craft Shops in the USA You Must Visit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re passionate about crafting, knowing where to shop can make all the difference. The USA is home to several top craft shops that cater to various needs and budgets. For instance, Michaels offers a vast selection of supplies, whereas JOANN Fabrics specializes in fabrics and tools. Furthermore, Blick Art Materials and Jerry’s Artarama provide high-quality options for serious artists. Each store has its unique strengths, ensuring every crafter finds the right materials. Let’s explore what each of these top shops offers. Key Takeaways Michaels offers a vast array of crafting products and classes, making it a premier destination for all crafting enthusiasts. JOANN Fabrics provides an extensive selection of fabrics and specialized craft tools, perfect for fabric lovers and DIY projects. Blick Art Materials specializes in high-quality art supplies, ideal for artists seeking professional-grade materials and fast delivery options. Five Below features budget-friendly crafting essentials, with all items priced at $5 and under, catering to kids and hobbyists alike. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff offers affordable 2D art supplies and free educational resources, making it a favorite for serious artists on a budget. Michaels: The Ultimate Crafting Destination When you’re looking for an extensive destination for all your crafting needs, Michaels stands out as the largest arts and crafts retail chain in the United States. This crafty shop offers a vast selection of craftsmanship products, including painting supplies, drawing materials, and seasonal décor. You’ll find everything from knitting and crochet supplies to embroidery kits, catering to both amateurs and professionals. Michaels frequently provides in-store and online coupons, allowing you to save on your purchases. Furthermore, the store hosts various classes and workshops, including a Kids Club program that engages younger crafters. With its strong presence across the country, Michaels aims to be your one-stop shop for completing all your creative projects efficiently. JOANN Fabrics: Your Go-To for Fabrics and More JOANN Fabrics stands as a prominent choice for crafters seeking a wide array of materials and supplies. With over 800 locations across the U.S., it’s a convenient craft shop USA for crafters of all levels. You’ll find a diverse selection of quilting cotton, denim, and various fabric blends, perfect for sewing projects. Beyond fabric, JOANN offers specialized craft tools, including jewelry-making materials, scrapbooking necessities, and tie-dye kits, ensuring you have everything you need for your projects. Their crafters website features custom pattern options, along with frequent sales and promotions. Moreover, JOANN hosts workshops and events that engage the crafting community, allowing you to learn new skills as you connect with fellow enthusiasts. Blick Art Materials: High-Quality Supplies for Artists Blick Art Materials serves as a leading destination for artists seeking high-quality supplies, offering a vast selection customized to both professionals and hobbyists. With over 60 locations across the United States, including craft shops in New York, it’s easy to find crucial art materials. Their inventory features a thorough range of painting, drawing, and specialty supplies, ensuring you have everything you need. For those shopping online, Blick emphasizes customer service with fast delivery options available through their USA crafters website. Furthermore, their craft store in Vancouver, WA, provides local access to top brands. You can likewise explore free art lesson videos on their website, helping you refine your skills and discover new techniques, making Blick a valuable resource for any artist. Jerry’s Artarama: A Haven for Serious Artists When you’re serious about your art, Jerry’s Artarama stands out as a top choice for all your 2D supply needs. With competitive pricing on a wide range of quality brands, you can stock up without overspending, whereas their user-friendly website makes it simple to locate specific materials. Plus, you can improve your skills with free educational resources like art lesson videos, ensuring you’re always advancing your craft. Competitive Pricing Options For serious artists seeking quality materials without breaking the bank, Jerry’s Artarama stands out as a prime destination due to its competitive pricing options. Here are some reasons why you should consider shopping there: Brand Variety: You’ll find professional-grade products from well-known brands similar to those at Blick, ensuring you get quality without the premium price tag. Discount Opportunities: By signing up for emails, you can frequently access exclusive discounts, helping you save even more on your vital supplies. Educational Resources: Jerry’s offers free online art lesson videos, giving you valuable tools to improve your skills as you keep your budget intact. With its focus on affordability and quality, Jerry’s Artarama is a smart choice for serious artists. Diverse Art Supplies Jerry’s Artarama serves as a thorough resource for serious artists seeking a diverse range of high-quality art supplies customized to their specific needs. Specializing in 2D art materials, you’ll find professional-grade brands that cater to various artistic preferences. Whether you’re into painting, drawing, ceramics, or bookbinding, their extensive selection guarantees you have the right tools for your projects. The user-friendly website simplifies navigation, allowing you to quickly locate the supplies you need. Furthermore, competitive pricing makes Jerry’s a practical choice for artists wanting quality without overspending. Their commitment to providing premium materials means you can focus on your creativity, knowing you have access to the best resources available in the market. Free Educational Resources Artists looking to improve their skills can take advantage of the free educational resources offered by Jerry’s Artarama, which include a variety of art lesson videos available on their website. These resources cater to all skill levels, making them accessible for everyone. Here are three key features you can explore: Diverse Video Library: Access a wide range of tutorials covering techniques in painting, drawing, and more. User-Friendly Navigation: Easily find the specific resources you need with an intuitive website layout. Regular Updates: Sign up for email notifications to stay informed about new educational videos and discounts on art supplies. With these resources, you can boost your artistry as you benefit from Jerry’s competitive pricing on high-quality materials. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff: Affordable Options for Art Supplies When you’re on the hunt for affordable art supplies, Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff stands out as a reliable destination that caters to both novice and experienced creators. Specializing in 2D art supplies, this store is perfect for anyone seeking budget-friendly materials. You’ll find organized categories like painting, drawing, ceramics, bookbinding, and paper supplies, which simplify your shopping experience. Pricing is competitive with other major art.com retailers, ensuring you receive quality products at reasonable rates. The user-friendly website allows for quick navigation to specific items, streamlining your online shopping. Furthermore, you can access free art lesson videos that improve your skills as you utilize the supplies you purchase. Cheap Joe’s truly makes art accessible for everyone. Five Below: Budget-Friendly Crafting Essentials If you’re looking for budget-friendly craft supplies, Five Below is a great option, offering a variety of items priced at $5 and under. This store makes it easy to find affordable options for kids’ craft projects, like coloring tools and craft kits, which are perfect for family activities. Furthermore, you’ll discover seasonal craft supplies that make it simple to celebrate holidays and events creatively without breaking the bank. Affordable Craft Supplies Five Below stands out as a go-to destination for those seeking affordable craft supplies, with all items priced at $5 or under. This budget-friendly store offers a variety of vital crafting materials, making it an excellent choice for both casual hobbyists and serious crafters. You can find: Coloring Tools: Markers, colored pencils, and crayons for all your drawing needs. Craft Kits: Pre-packaged projects that include everything you need to create something special. DIY Project Materials: A range of items like foam sheets, beads, and stickers for personalized creations. With locations across the U.S. and frequently updated inventory, Five Below provides convenient access to trendy and inexpensive crafting supplies, ensuring you’re always ready for your next project. Kids’ Craft Projects For parents seeking budget-friendly options for kids’ craft projects, Five Below offers an impressive selection of supplies and kits that cater to youthful creativity. With all items priced at $5 and under, you can easily stock up on vital crafting tools. From DIY craft kits to coloring supplies, there’s something for every child’s interest. The store frequently updates its inventory, providing fresh materials aligned with current trends. Furthermore, themed craft kits are perfect for group activities, ideal for birthday parties or school projects. Here’s a quick overview of the types of items you can find: Item Type Price Range Purpose Craft Kits $5 Complete projects for kids Coloring Tools $1-$5 Encourage artistic expression Seasonal Items $1-$5 Crafting based on current holidays DIY Supplies $1-$5 Basic materials for creative projects Seasonal Craft Deals As the seasons change, so do the crafting opportunities at Five Below, where shoppers can find an array of seasonal craft deals designed to various holidays and events. This budget-friendly store offers everything priced at $5 or under, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious crafters. When you visit, you can expect: Holiday-Themed Supplies: Items personalized for Halloween, Christmas, and Easter, allowing you to create festive decorations. DIY Kits: Ready-to-use kits that include all required materials for quick and easy projects. Basic Craft Supplies: Necessities like markers, glue, and paper, perfect for spontaneous crafting without overspending. With frequent updates to their inventory, Five Below is your go-to spot for affordable crafting needs. ArtSupply.com: Streamlined Shopping for Artists Though many art supply retailers overwhelm customers with countless options, ArtSupply.com stands out by offering a streamlined shopping experience customized for both amateur and professional artists. The website focuses on high-quality art supplies, making it easy for you to find crucial materials like paint, brushes, and canvas. With a carefully curated selection, ArtSupply.com limits its stock to guarantee you’re not bogged down by excessive choices, allowing for quicker decision-making. Its user-friendly layout facilitates efficient navigation, so you can swiftly locate specific items without frustration. Committed to enhancing your overall shopping experience, ArtSupply.com provides reliable materials for various art projects, making it a go-to destination for artists seeking convenience and quality in one place. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Most Popular Craft Stores? When considering the most popular craft stores, Michaels stands out for its extensive selection of arts and crafts supplies. JOANN Fabrics is a favorite for fabric and quilting needs, whereas Blick Art Materials offers professional-grade art supplies. Hobby Lobby attracts shoppers with its diverse craft items and home decor. Furthermore, online retailers like Craft Supply Depot provide unique products and exceptional customer service, catering to the growing demand for e-commerce in the crafting community. Where to Shop Instead of Hobby Lobby? If you’re looking for alternatives to Hobby Lobby, consider Michaels for a wide range of arts and crafts supplies, including seasonal decor. JOANN Fabrics is ideal for sewing and textile projects, offering various fabrics and materials. For higher-quality art supplies, Blick Art Materials caters to both amateurs and professionals. If you prefer online shopping, Craft Supply Depot provides unique items and excellent customer service. Each option serves different crafting needs effectively. Is Michaels or Hobby Lobby Better for Crafts? When deciding between Michaels and Hobby Lobby for crafts, consider what you need. Michaels offers a wider variety of supplies, including seasonal decor and in-store classes, which can improve your crafting experience. Conversely, Hobby Lobby frequently has sales and features unique home decor items. If you’re looking for competitive pricing and religious-themed materials, Hobby Lobby might be better. In the end, your choice depends on your specific crafting needs and preferences. How Many People Craft in the US? About 60% of Americans engage in some form of crafting, reflecting a significant interest in DIY projects. This translates to over 25 million households regularly participating in crafting activities, showcasing its popularity across various demographics. The crafting industry is valued at approximately $44 billion, highlighting its economic impact. Social media platforms have additionally boosted participation by 20%, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, where around 70% report involvement in DIY and handmade projects. Conclusion To summarize, exploring these top craft shops across the USA can greatly improve your creative projects. Michaels offers a vast selection of supplies, whereas JOANN Fabrics specializes in diverse textiles. For artists, Blick Art Materials and Jerry’s Artarama provide high-quality options. Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff delivers value, and Five Below guarantees affordability for all crafters. Finally, ArtSupply.com streamlines your shopping experience. Each of these stores caters to different crafting needs, making them crucial destinations for enthusiasts. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Craft Shops in the USA You Must Visit" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Is the future of concert venues more spheres? It seems so. Following on the success of Sphere in Las Vegas, plans are underway to bring a smaller-scale version to the National Harbor in Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. Wes Moore, the governor of Maryland, announced on Sunday that the state and Prince George’s County are working with Sphere Entertainment Co. and Peterson Companies to develop a 6,000-seat sphere, its second venue in the U.S. “This will be one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history,” Moore said in a statement. “We’re excited for what this means for our people, and how it will showcase the best of what Maryland has to offer to everyone who visits.” The collaborators are estimating that Sphere National Harbor could generate an economic impact in excess of $1 billion annually and support 4,750 jobs once operational. Though there’s not yet an estimate of the cost of construction, this project could receive state, local, and private funding to the tune of approximately $200 million. MORE SPHERES COMING Located across the Potomac River from Alexandria, Virginia, National Harbor already draws tourists and convention-goers alike. Its attractions include the Capital Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel, and an MGM resort that boasts more than 135,000 square feet of gambling and a 3,000-seat concert venue. A rendering of the new Sphere indicates a potential location set off from the Harbor and next to the MGM. Even at a smaller size, the sphere would still feature the same Exosphere as the one in Las Vegas, which is an exterior LED display that allows the venue to take on different looks. Inside, the venue would feature the highest-resolution LED screen, haptic seating, 4D environmental effects, and other advanced technologies found in the original that seats more than 17,000 people. Construction is well underway for Sphere Entertainment’s second Sphere in Abu Dhabi, and National Harbor would mark the first smaller-scale version of the concert venue—and potentially pave the way for others. “Our focus has always been on creating a global network of Spheres across forward-looking cities,” James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, said in the statement. He also praised local and state lawmakers for recognizing the potential that a Sphere at National Harbor could “elevate and advance immersive experiences across the area.” There is no estimate on timing for the new Sphere yet, as the proposed venue is still being negotiated and requires various approvals. NOT SOLD ON SPHERES Though the planners behind the project boasted that Sphere in Las Vegas topped rankings by Billboard and Pollstar for top-grossing venues worldwide, many people haven’t been entirely sold on the venue. It has an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 on Tripadvisor, while panning events held there has become somewhat of a sport for some influencers. What’s more, the Sphere has been the topic of much criticism since it opened in 2023. Most recently, some film fans fumed because The Wizard of Oz—currently showing at the Sphere for tickets starting at $104 per seat—used generative AI to “reimagine” aspects of visuals from the classic to fit the venue’s capabilities. Even so, such criticisms haven’t slowed Sphere Entertainment’s meteoric rise. Its stock has surged 134% in the past year. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you want a tablet and a laptop but can’t justify buying two separate devices, there’s no need to choose—there are plenty of two-in-one designs out there like the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, a lightweight laptop that flips back 360 degrees and combines the perks of both. Right now, the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 laptop and tablet is $1,549.99 (originally $ 1,999.99), bringing it to 23% off and its lowest price ever, according to price-trackers. Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 $1,549.99 at Amazon $1,999.99 Save $450.00 Get Deal Get Deal $1,549.99 at Amazon $1,999.99 Save $450.00 This laptop-tablet hybrid is a shining example of how versatile a PC can be and is a smart option for students, frequent travelers, or people who only need a keyboard occasionally. In laptop mode, it works like a standard clamshell for typing, but can be folded back flat and used with the included S Pen in tablet mode. It also has in-between tent and stand modes, which let you prop it up to watch movies in bed or on a plane or for presentations where you don’t want the keyboard in the way. It comes with 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD and uses an Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor 258V that’s designed for effective everyday performance and AI tasks. The 8-core Lunar Lake chip is built for thin, lightweight laptops and 2-in-1s, and this Windows Pro 11 model is rated for up to 24 hours of battery life. The 16-inch 3K AMOLED touchscreen boasts a high resolution and accurate, vivid colors, though some reviewers note that the keyboard is a little softer and less “clicky” than they’d like. Its durable aluminum design weighs just 3.72 pounds and is 12.7mm thick, rivaling the weight of the 15-inch MacBook Air (around 3.3 lbs). AI-optimized Copilot+ enhancements add functionality as a business laptop, depending on how much you use AI in your day-to-day. You can also sync a Galaxy phone to access features like call, text, and AI tools. With a 120Hz refresh rate, it also delivers smooth scrolling, video playback, and casual gaming. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a premium and ultra-portable 2-in-1 PC laptop with seamless performance, a vibrant high-res touch screen, and lots of memory and storage, the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is a versatile workhorse works well for both business and creative tasks, especially if you’re already part of the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem and can grab it at its current $450 discount. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $148.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $399.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 — $279.99 (List Price $349.99) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet (Graphite) — $149.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

I’m off for the holiday, so here’s an older post from the archives. This was originally published in 2021. A reader writes: My fiancé, “Ted,” has worked for 10 years on a small, very close-knit team, all of whom seem to get along exceptionally well. All the team members and spouses/partners socialize outside of work together as well, and we consider them all to be close friends. We thought they felt the same. A few months ago, on the way to a work event, Ted and his coworker/best friend “Bob” were involved in a serious car accident and were rushed to the ER. Everyone waited anxiously for hours as they both underwent surgery. Thankfully, they both recovered. When Ted returned to work, a team member, “Sally,” told him she had a confession to make. She said that while they had been in surgery, she prayed that if God had to let one of them die, she hoped it would be him. (WTF?!?) Ted was shocked and asked why. He said she gushed on and on about what a “saint” Bob is. (Her examples were that Bob gives her great advice on her struggling marriage and has loaned her money when she was in a tight spot.) She finished by saying, “No disrespect to you, but Bob is in a class by himself. You have to admit you can’t measure up to that” and walked away. Ted was truly devastated to learn that she felt this way, but he tried to attribute it to the stress of the situation and did his best to put it behind him. He never told anyone else on the team what she said and tried to continue on at work as if nothing had happened, but his relationship with Sally hasn’t recovered. He is still deeply wounded by her comments. Although Ted appears to be a confident person, underneath he is fairly insecure. He truly thought Sally was a good friend. So in addition to causing him a lot of pain, this has also rattled his confidence. Now he’s wondering if all his team members secretly feel the way she does. Ted and Sally have always seemed to have a warm, cordial relationship and he can’t understand why she would say such a hurtful thing. Ted is now constantly measuring himself against Bob and questioning why he isn’t as “good.” I suggested that perhaps Sally has a crush on Bob or feels closer to him for reasons that have nothing to do with Ted. But he is convinced that thinks she sees him as a “second tier” man and worries that others do too. Our wedding is coming up soon and the venue strictly limits the number of guests. When it was time to send out invitations, Ted invited the rest of the team and their spouses but did not invite Sally and her husband. I expressed my concern that this would cause more problems, but he replied that since we could only have a limited numbers of guests, he’d prefer to spend our special day with another pair of close friends who “genuinely love and appreciate” us rather than a woman with whom his relationship is now severely strained. Two weeks ago, I got a call from another team member, “Alice,” asking me if I had forgotten to send an invitation to Sally. I explained that because the venue is small, we simply couldn’t invite everyone. Alice then told Ted that if we didn’t invite Sally, she and the other women on the team wouldn’t attend either. Ted told her that since the invitations have already gone out, there is no way to add Sally and her husband now unless we “uninvited” two other guests, which we can not do. Now all the women on the team, including Sally, are freezing Ted out. They refuse to speak to him except when forced to, which is really starting to adversely impact the collaborative work the team does and hampering Ted’s ability to do his job. The men on the team have sided with Ted, saying they feel we have the right to invite (or not invite) whomever we want to our own wedding. This has caused an even further rift in the team. Everyone is questioning Ted about why we didn’t invite Sally, but he doesn’t feel it’s his place to explain why he doesn’t want her to attend and just keeps repeating that the decision was due to the venue size limitations. The manager of the team works at another site, and because the team has previously worked so well together, has historically been fairly hands-off, and is oblivious to what is happening now. But if the work continues to suffer, she’s going to notice and ask what’s going on. What, if anything, should Ted do? Should he preemptively go to the manger to give her a heads/up, or will that make it even worse to be seen as “tattling”? Is there anything he can do to “fix” this on the team, before it erodes their work product even more? I did weaken and called the venue, who grudgingly said they would be willing to accommodate one more couple. Should we break down and invite Sally to the wedding for the sake of harmony at work? What a mess. I completely understand why you wouldn’t want Sally at your wedding! She prayed your fiancé would die. Maybe not exactly … but pretty close to it. And then for some reason, she felt the need to tell him. Why?! She should have kept it to herself; there was no need to inform Ted and if she hadn’t, presumably life at work would have just gone on as before. So Sally sounds like a bit of a nut. However. I’m not a fan of pressuring people into wedding invitations, but you also can’t exclude one person from a tight-knit group and expect that not to send a message and cause drama. You’ve got to either invite the whole group, or invite fewer of them so you’re not leaving out just one person, or leave out the one person and accept that it’s going to be A Thing. You and Ted chose the latter option but are hoping it won’t cause drama, and that’s not realistic. It’s especially not going to happen when no one knows why Ted is upset with Sally. From what they can see, they had a close, tight-knit group of work friends and now Ted has randomly and hurtfully decided to exclude one person for no reason. I get that he’s trying to blame it on the venue size, but that doesn’t really work when you’ve excluded one person from a “tier” of wedding guests. It wouldn’t work if he had excluded one uncle or one niece, and it doesn’t work when you exclude one of a very close team of colleagues. People are going to read something into it and be hurt. The drama that it’s causing is pretty excessive — coworkers freezing him out and refusing to speak to him except when forced, to the point that it’s affecting their work, is a weirdly intense reaction (as well as inappropriate and unprofessional). That’s likely a sign that the boundaries on this team were messed up before any of this happened, and that’s why the wedding invitations are functioning as a bomb rather than more like an exploding soda can. And again, in theory you should be able to invite whoever you want to your wedding and exclude anyone you don’t want there. And you can! You just can’t do it without consequence, and that’s what you’re seeing now. As for what to do, if Ted wants to stick to his decision, he’s probably better off just being matter-of-fact about why: “Normally we would have loved to have the whole group, but when Bob and I were in the hospital Sally told me she prayed for me to die if one of us had to. So we’re not asking her to celebrate our wedding with us.” Then at least people would have context. It will probably cause a different kind of drama, but if Ted can stay matter-of-fact about it (“it is what it is and we can still work together fine, but it didn’t make sense to ask her to be at the wedding”) it’s probably a better option than the drama of No One Knows Why Ted Did Such an Unkind Thing. Frankly, it might also be an opportunity to clear the air with Sally. It sounds like she might have no idea why Ted didn’t invite her. He could sit down with her and say, “I’m sorry this has gotten so out-of-hand. I should have spoken to you earlier. I was really hurt by what you said to me after Bob’s and my accident. I’d thought we were close friends, and I haven’t been able to get past you telling me that you prayed I’d die if one of us had to. It’s why we didn’t ask you to be at our wedding, but I’m realizing that I should have talked with you about it earlier.” It’s possible that conversation could move things to a much better place. Maybe Sally didn’t realize how her remark came across and maybe she’ll be mortified in hindsight. Maybe it’ll turn out she was addled by painkillers when they talked and this is the latest in her long and embarrassing list of discoveries of things she said that day. Maybe they’ll have the sort of conversation that will make Ted happy to extend a wedding invitation to her. Who knows. But looking at where things stand now, not talking to her about it seems like the worse option. And just giving in and inviting her without having that conversation first doesn’t seem likely to fix things at this point. Read an update to this letter here. The post a coworker prayed for my fiancé’s death so we didn’t invite her to our wedding … and now there is drama appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

U.S. Donald The President linked his aggressive stance on Greenland to last year’s decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, telling Norway’s prime minister that he no longer felt “an obligation to think purely of Peace,” two European officials said Monday. The President’s message to Jonas Gahr Støre appears to ratchet up a standoff between Washington and its closest allies over his threats to take over Greenland, a self-governing territory of NATO member Denmark. To force European countries that have rallied around Denmark and Greenland toward talks, The President on Saturday announced a 10% import tax starting in February on goods from eight nations, including Norway. Those countries issued a forceful rebuke. But British Prime Minister Keir Starmer sought to de-escalate tensions on Monday. While the White House has not ruled taking control of the strategic Arctic island by force, Starmer said he did not believe military action would occur. “I think this can be resolved and should be resolved through calm discussion,” he said. Still, the American leader’s message to Gahr Støre could further fracture a U.S.-European relationship already strained by differences over how to end the nearly four-year war in Ukraine, previous rounds of tariffs, military spending and migration policy. In a sign of how tensions have increased in recent days, thousands of Greenlanders marched over the weekend in protest of any effort to take over their island. Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said in a Facebook post Monday that the tariff threats would not change the their stance. “We will not be pressured,” he wrote. “We stand firm on dialogue, on respect, and on international law.” The President sends a message to the Norwegian leader According to two European officials, The President’s message to Gahr Støre read in part: “Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped 8 Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace, although it will always be predominant, but can now think about what is good and proper for the United States of America.” It concluded: “The World is not secure unless we have Complete and Total Control of Greenland.” The officials, who were not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity, said it had been forwarded to multiple European ambassadors in Washington. PBS first reported on the content of The President’s note. Gahr Støre confirmed Monday that he had received a text message from The President but did not release its contents. The White House did not respond to questions about the letter or the context for The President sending it. Gahr Støre said The President’s message was a reply to an earlier missive sent on behalf of himself and Finnish President Alexander Stubb, in which they conveyed their opposition to the tariff announcement, pointed to a need to de-escalate, and proposed a telephone conversation among the three leaders. “Norway’s position on Greenland is clear. Greenland is a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports the Kingdom of Denmark on this matter,” Støre said. “As regards the Nobel Peace Prize, I have clearly explained, including to president The President what is well known, the prize is awarded by an independent Nobel Committee and not the Norwegian Government.” The Norwegian Nobel Committee is an independent body whose five members are appointed by the Norwegian Parliament. The President has openly coveted the peace prize, which the committee awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado last year. Last week, Machado presented her Nobel medal to The President, who said he planned to keep it though the committee said the prize can’t be revoked, transferred or shared with others. Starmer says a trade war is in no one’s interest In his latest threat of tariffs, The President indicated they would be retaliation for last week’s deployment of symbolic numbers of troops from the European countries to Greenland — though he also suggested that he was using the tariffs as leverage to negotiate with Denmark. European governments said that the troops traveled to the island for Arctic security training in response to The President’s own concerns about interference from Russia and China. Starmer on Monday called The President’s threat of tariffs “completely wrong” and said that a trade war is in no one’s interest. He added that “being pragmatic does not mean being passive and partnership does not mean abandoning principles.” Six of the eight countries targeted are part of the 27-member European Union, which operates as a single economic zone in terms of trade. European Council President Antonio Costa said Sunday that the bloc’s leaders expressed “readiness to defend ourselves against any form of coercion.” He announced a summit for Thursday evening. Starmer indicated that Britain, which is not part of the EU, is not planning to consider retaliatory tariffs. “My focus is on making sure we don’t get to that stage,” he said. Denmark’s defense minister and Greenland’s foreign minister are expected to meet NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Brussels on Monday, a meeting that was planned before the latest escalation. Associated Press writer Josh Boak in West Palm Beach, Florida, contributed to this report. —Aamer Madhani, Geir Moulson and Jill Lawless, Associated Press View the full article

We fully decrypted Google’s SearchGuard anti-bot system, the technology at the center of its recent lawsuit against SerpAPI. After fully deobfuscating the JavaScript code, we now have an unprecedented look at how Google distinguishes human visitors from automated scrapers in real time. What happened. Google filed a lawsuit on Dec. 19 against Texas-based SerpAPI LLC, alleging the company circumvented SearchGuard to scrape copyrighted content from Google Search results at a scale of “hundreds of millions” of queries daily. Rather than targeting terms-of-service violations, Google built its case on DMCA Section 1201 – the anti-circumvention provision of copyright law. The complaint describes SearchGuard as “the product of tens of thousands of person hours and millions of dollars of investment.” Why we care. The lawsuit reveals exactly what Google considers worth protecting – and how far it will go to defend it. For SEOs and marketers, understanding SearchGuard matters because any large-scale automated interaction with Google Search now triggers this system. If you’re using tools that scrape SERPs, this is the wall they’re hitting. The OpenAI connection Here’s where it gets interesting: SerpAPI isn’t just any scraping company. OpenAI has been partially using Google search results scraped by SerpAPI to power ChatGPT’s real-time answers. SerpAPI listed OpenAI as a customer on its website as recently as May 2024, before the reference was quietly removed. Google declined OpenAI’s direct request to access its search index in 2024. Yet ChatGPT still needed fresh search data to compete. The solution? A third-party scraper that pillages Google’s SERPs and resells the data. Google isn’t attacking OpenAI directly. It’s targeting a key link in the supply chain that feeds its main AI competitor. The timing is telling. Google is striking at the infrastructure that powers rival search products — without naming them in the complaint. What we found inside SearchGuard We fully decrypted version 41 of the BotGuard script – the technology underlying SearchGuard. The script opens with an unexpectedly friendly message: Anti-spam. Want to say hello? Contact botguard-contact@google.com */ Behind that greeting sits one of the most sophisticated bot detection systems ever deployed. BotGuard vs. SearchGuard. BotGuard is Google’s proprietary anti-bot system, internally called “Web Application Attestation” (WAA). Introduced around 2013, it now protects virtually all Google services: YouTube, reCAPTCHA v3, Google Maps, and more. In its complaint against SerpAPI, Google revealed that the system protecting Search specifically is called “SearchGuard” – presumably the internal name for BotGuard when applied to Google Search. This is the component that was deployed in January 2025, breaking nearly every SERP scraper overnight. Unlike traditional CAPTCHAs that require clicking images of traffic lights, BotGuard operates completely invisibly. It continuously collects behavioral signals and analyzes them using statistical algorithms to distinguish humans from bots – all without the user knowing. The code runs inside a bytecode virtual machine with 512 registers, specifically designed to resist reverse engineering. How Google knows you’re human The system tracks four categories of behavior in real time. Here’s what it measures: Mouse movements Humans don’t move cursors in straight lines. We follow natural curves with acceleration and deceleration – tiny imperfections that reveal our humanity. Google tracks: Trajectory (path shape) Velocity (speed) Acceleration (speed changes) Jitter (micro-tremors) A “perfect” mouse movement – linear, constant speed – is immediately suspicious. Bots typically move in precise vectors or teleport between points. Humans are messier. Detection threshold: Mouse velocity variance below 10 flags as bot behavior. Normal human variance falls between 50-500. Keyboard rhythm Everyone has a unique typing signature. Google measures: Inter-key intervals (time between keystrokes) Key press duration (how long each key is held) Error patterns Pauses after punctuation A human typically shows 80-150ms variance between keystrokes. A bot? Often less than 10ms with robotic consistency. Detection threshold: Key press duration variance under 5ms indicates automation. Normal human typing shows 20-50ms variance. Scroll behavior Natural scrolling has variable velocity, direction changes, and momentum-based deceleration. Programmatic scrolling is often too smooth, too fast, or perfectly uniform. Google measures: Amplitude (how far) Direction changes Timing between scrolls Smoothness patterns Scrolling in fixed increments – 100px, 100px, 100px – is a red flag. Detection threshold: Scroll delta variance under 5px suggests bot activity. Humans typically show 20-100px variance. Timing jitter This is the killer signal. Humans are inconsistent, and that’s exactly what makes us human. Google uses Welford’s algorithm to calculate variance in real-time with constant memory usage – meaning it can analyze patterns without storing massive amounts of data, regardless of how many events occur. As each event arrives, the algorithm updates its running statistics. If your action intervals have near-zero variance, you’re flagged. The math: If timing follows a Gaussian distribution with natural variance, you’re human. If it’s uniform or deterministic, you’re a bot. Detection threshold: Event counts exceeding 200 per second indicate automation. Normal human interaction generates 10-50 events per second. The 100+ DOM elements Google monitors Beyond behavior, SearchGuard fingerprints your browser environment by monitoring over 100 HTML elements. The complete list extracted from the source code includes: High-priority elements (forms): BUTTON, INPUT – these receive special attention because bots often target interactive elements. Structure: ARTICLE, SECTION, NAV, ASIDE, HEADER, FOOTER, MAIN, DIV Text: P, PRE, BLOCKQUOTE, EM, STRONG, CODE, SPAN, and 25 others Tables: TABLE, CAPTION, TBODY, THEAD, TR, TD, TH Media: FIGURE, CANVAS, PICTURE Interactive: DETAILS, SUMMARY, MENU, DIALOG Environmental fingerprinting SearchGuard also collects extensive browser and device data: Navigator properties: userAgent language / languages platform hardwareConcurrency (CPU cores) deviceMemory maxTouchPoints Screen properties: width / height colorDepth / pixelDepth devicePixelRatio Performance: performance.now() precision performance.timeOrigin Timer jitter (fluctuations in timing APIs) Visibility: document.hidden visibilityState hasFocus() WebDriver detection: The script specifically checks for signatures that betray automation tools: navigator.webdriver (true if automated) window.chrome.runtime (absent in headless mode) ChromeDriver signatures ($cdc_ prefixes) Puppeteer markers ($chrome_asyncScriptInfo) Selenium indicators (__selenium_unwrapped) PhantomJS artifacts (_phantom) Why bypasses become obsolete in minutes Here’s the critical discovery: SearchGuard uses a cryptographic system that can invalidate any bypass within minutes. The script generates encrypted tokens using an ARX cipher (Addition-Rotation-XOR) – similar to Speck, a family of lightweight block ciphers released by the NSA in 2013 and optimized for software implementations on devices with limited processing power. But there’s a twist. The magic constant rotates. The cryptographic constant embedded in the cipher isn’t fixed. It changes with every script rotation. Observed values from our analysis: Timestamp 16:04:21: Constant = 1426 Timestamp 16:24:06: Constant = 3328 The script itself is served from URLs with integrity hashes: //www.google.com/js/bg/{HASH}.js. When the hash changes, the cache invalidates, and every client downloads a fresh version with new cryptographic parameters. Even if you fully reverse-engineer the system, your implementation becomes invalid with the next update. It’s cat and mouse by design. The statistical algorithms Two algorithms power SearchGuard’s behavioral analysis: Welford’s algorithm calculates variance in real time with constant memory usage – meaning it processes each event as it arrives and updates a running statistical summary, without storing every past interaction. Whether the system has seen 100 or 100 million events, memory consumption stays the same. Reservoir sampling maintains a random sample of 50 events per metric to estimate median behavior. This provides a representative sample without storing every interaction. Combined, these algorithms build a statistical profile of your behavior and compare it against what humans actually do. SerpAPI’s response SerpAPI’s founder and CEO, Julien Khaleghy, shared this statement with Search Engine Land: “SerpApi has not been served with Google’s complaint, and prior to filing, Google did not contact us to raise any concerns or explore a constructive resolution. For more than eight years, SerpApi has provided developers, researchers, and businesses with access to public search data. The information we provide is the same information any person can see in their browser without signing in. We believe this lawsuit is an effort to stifle competition from the innovators who rely on our services to build next-generation AI, security, browsers, productivity, and many other applications.” The defense may face challenges. The DMCA doesn’t require content to be non-public – it prohibits circumventing technical protection measures, period. If Google proves SerpAPI deliberately bypassed SearchGuard protections, the “public data” argument may not hold. What this means for SEO – and the bigger picture If you’re building SEO tools that programmatically access Google Search, 2025 was brutal. In January, Google deployed SearchGuard. Nearly every SERP scraper suddenly stopped returning results. SerpAPI had to scramble to develop workarounds – which Google now calls illegal circumvention. Then in September, Google removed the num=100 parameter – a long-standing URL trick that allowed tools to retrieve 100 results in a single request instead of 10. Officially, Google said it was “not a formally supported feature.” But the timing was telling: forcing scrapers to make 10x more requests dramatically increased their operational costs. Some analysts suggested the move specifically targeted AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity that relied on mass scraping for real-time data. The combined effect: traditional scraping approaches are increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain. For the industry: This lawsuit could reshape how courts view anti-scraping measures. If SearchGuard qualifies as a valid “technological protection measure” under DMCA, every platform could deploy similar systems with legal teeth. Under DMCA Section 1201, statutory damages range from $200 to $2,500 per circumvention act. With hundreds of millions of alleged violations daily, the theoretical liability is astronomical – though Google’s complaint acknowledges that “SerpApi will be unable to pay.” The message isn’t about money. It’s about setting precedent. Meanwhile, the antitrust case rolls on. Judge Mehta ordered Google to share its index and user data with “Qualified Competitors” at marginal cost. One hand is being forced open while the other throws punches. Google’s position: “You want our data? Go through the antitrust process and the technical committee. Not through scraping.” Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Google technically offers publishers controls, but they’re limited. Google-Extended allows publishers to opt out of AI training for Gemini models and Vertex AI – but it doesn’t apply to Search AI features including AI Overviews. Google’s documentation states: “AI is built into Search and integral to how Search functions, which is why robots.txt directives for Googlebot is the control for site owners to manage access to how their sites are crawled for Search.” Court testimony from DeepMind VP Eli Collins during the antitrust trial confirmed this separation: content opted out via Google-Extended could still be used by the Search organization for AI Overviews, because Google-Extended isn’t the control mechanism for Search. The only way to fully opt out of AI Overviews? Block Googlebot entirely – and lose all search traffic. Publishers face an impossible choice: accept that your content feeds Google’s AI search products, or disappear from search results altogether. Your move, courts. Dig deeper Full BotGuard technical analysis and deobfuscated source code Google’s official statement on the lawsuit Full complaint: Google LLC v. SerpApi (PDF) This analysis is based on version 41 of the BotGuard script, extracted and deobfuscated from challenge data in January 2026. The information is provided for informational purposes only. View the full article