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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’ve been holding off on a video doorbell because it usually costs too much, now’s a good time to reconsider. The Ring Battery Doorbell, in satin nickel or Venetian bronze, is currently $59.99 (down from $99.99)—the lowest it’s ever been, according to price trackers. Ring Battery Doorbell $59.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $99.99 Save $40.00 Get Deal Get Deal $59.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $99.99 Save $40.00 This model runs on an internal (rechargeable) battery, so you don’t have to deal with wiring—unless you want to, in which case it has terminals for existing doorbell wiring. When the battery runs low, you just need to pop the unit off the door and charge it via USB-C. As for the camera, it records in 1,440 x 1,440 resolution with a 150-degree field of view, which means you’ll get a full, head-to-toe view of whoever is at your door. It starts recording both when someone presses the button and when motion is detected, but you’ll need a Ring Home subscription ($4.99/month) to actually access those recordings. Without it, you’ll only get live views and notifications. On the bright side, notifications are fast, and if you can’t answer right away, you can set the Quick Replies feature to let the doorbell respond for you. Additionally, its daytime video looks sharp and colorful, and black-and-white night vision is crisp, though its color night vision tends to look a little washed out, notes this PCMag review. It integrates well with Amazon Alexa and supports IFTTT, meaning you can connect it to other compatible smart home gadgets. However, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit aren’t supported, so if you’re deep in those ecosystems, this might not be the best fit for you. You can manage and control the doorbell through the Ring app, where you can adjust motion settings, use the two-way audio, review saved videos, and access live view. You can also set up Quick Replies, switch between security modes, connect to other Ring devices, and more via the app. If you're considering alternatives, the Arlo Video Doorbell is worth checking out at $59.99 (originally $129.99). View the full article

A zoning map shows the acceptable uses for property in a city or other area. Zoning information on these maps usually tells which areas are zoned for residential and/or commercial use. What Is a Zoning Map? These are an important part of urban planning. Cities, municipalities, and other types of government divide the property up into land-use zones. A city using this type of ordinance can have several zoning districts like commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial. Zoning maps need to show clear boundaries. Read on to find out more about this subject. And remember that Google Translate can help you with the right language. There are 108 different ones to choose from with the Google Translate app. Who Uses a Zoning Map? Zoning information that you can find in these maps is used by municipalities. This is how they set their general policies for land use and how these rules serve the way a city or other area gets developed and divided up. A business looking to set up a shop might need to look at a map and check out the zoning regulations. They might need to apply for rezoning. Even homeowners should check zoning maps before they renovate. There are zoning bylaws that can affect your property in a city. Why Do You Need a Zoning Map? These show the different land-use zones, districts, and/or overlays. One of the big reasons these maps are created is to show the regulations for development in each of the zones. It’s possible to get a minor variance if your proposed changes don’t conform to zoning bylaws. The right map can tell you more about land use and the current zoning. It can be the first stage in planning a new business build or custom house. What Does a Zoning Map Tell You? Remember, there’s no federal agency that controls zoning. You might own your own property but you still need to abide by the planning laws for your city. One of these maps provides residents with information on how land designated for building can be utilized and where it can be situated. A zoning map can also specify the height and dimensions of buildings and other structures. Additionally, it may outline requirements for parking and landscaping, as well as the dimensions and sizes of lots. CategoryDescription Land UseSpecifies how land can be utilized (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial). Building LocationDefines where buildings can be placed within a lot or parcel. Building HeightDictates the maximum allowable height of structures. Building SizeProvides the maximum size or footprint of buildings. Parking RequirementsOutlines the number of parking spots needed for a building or lot. Landscape RequirementsSpecifies required green spaces, trees, and other landscaping elements. Lot DimensionsDetails the minimum and maximum allowable lot sizes. Lot SizesIndicates the size of plots, which can determine the type and size of development. Where Can You Find Zoning Maps? If you want to navigate through the land use for a property, you’ll need to find the right zoning. Looking for zoning in a bigger city? Be aware the process began with the ordinances started in Los Angeles in 1904. If you’re searching for an online resource, MapLink offers an interactive zoning map. This planning tool features a user-friendly menu. It’s particularly useful for determining where you can establish a business or understanding the potential uses for your property in a city. If you’re considering options overseas, you may require translation services. The National Zoning Atlas is another resource on the web. There are a variety of links on the menu and different landing pages. The site is all about digitizing the 30,000 US zoning codes and supplying links on the Internet. Don’t forget the Google Translate app works with images. It’s been developed so users can translate the text. Translations can be helpful if you’re looking at zoning in unfamiliar areas. Common Zoning Categories Effective planning for businesses involves understanding how to utilize their property within a city. The first step is locating a zoning map on a reliable site. Additionally, entrepreneurs and users of the map should familiarize themselves with the typical categories found in each city. Residential Zoning This is commonly found on different city maps. Residential zones can include condominiums, co-ops, duplexes, apartments, and even trailer parks. The major designation is single-family residences. Commercial Zoning This has several categories. In a city, this zoning can serve shopping centers, nightclubs, and hotels as well as office buildings and shopping centers. Even a vacant apartment building that has the potential for development can be considered commercial. Agricultural Zoning This type of zoning covers a city or other area that intends to protect farmland. Part of the planning involved is designed to limit suburban sprawl. The type of structures that can be built is limited. Industrial Zoning Industrial zoning can include noise concerns and environmental factors to determine how the planning for the area unfolds. Factors like building heights and floor area ratios are important to map users. What Does Zoning in Retail Mean? Zoning ordinances include retail properties. In fact, the term retail property is an ordinance itself. It describes a property that is used as a retail enterprise or space. Companies can operate businesses and sell goods and services in zones that are retail locations. Zoning Maps for Small Businesses: A Practical Guide When planning to start or relocate a small business, understanding zoning maps is crucial. These maps dictate what activities can take place in specific areas, directly impacting where your business can operate. Here’s how small businesses can navigate zoning maps effectively: Identify Suitable Zones: Begin by identifying the zoning classifications that permit your type of business. Commercial, industrial, and mixed-use zones are common designations where small businesses are allowed. However, specific restrictions within these categories can vary significantly. Utilize Online Resources: Many municipalities offer online zoning maps and databases. Utilize these digital tools to search for properties by address and view their zoning classification. This initial step can save time and resources before investing in a particular location. Understand Permitted Uses: Once you’ve identified potential zones, delve into the specifics of what is allowed within those zones. For instance, a commercial zone might permit retail but not manufacturing. Understanding these nuances is key to ensuring your business operates legally. Consider Future Growth: When examining zoning maps, think about your business’s future growth. Ensure the zone you’re considering not only fits your current needs but also offers flexibility for expansion, whether through additional commercial activities or physical space. Look for Special Provisions: Some zones have special provisions or overlays that could benefit your business, such as incentives for small businesses, reduced taxes, or grants for beautifying commercial spaces. These can provide a competitive edge and financial benefits. Engage with Planning Departments: If you’re unsure about the zoning requirements or potential restrictions, contact your local planning department. They can provide clarity on zoning laws, potential rezoning processes, or variances that might apply to your business. Prepare for Rezoning or Variance Requests: In some cases, the ideal location for your business may not be zoned appropriately. Be prepared to petition for rezoning or a variance. This process can be lengthy and may require community engagement, so factor this into your planning. Quick Reference Guide: Check zoning maps early in your location selection process. Use digital tools for easy access to zoning information. Understand the specific permitted uses within your desired zone. Plan for both current needs and future growth. Investigate special provisions that could benefit your business. Engage with local planning departments for guidance. Be prepared to navigate rezoning or variance processes if necessary. Navigating zoning maps can initially seem daunting for small business owners. However, with careful research and planning, these maps can be a valuable resource in selecting the perfect location for your business, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and planning for long-term success. Do You Need a Zoning Permit for a Home-based Business? Residents who want to start a home-based business should check with the city where they live. Planning a successful home-based business depends on the type. Local zoning laws might prohibit things like fixing cars out of a home garage. If you’re planning on putting a sign outside your property, you’ll need to check the local ordinances. Make sure to check with your city. Some have rules for environmental safety and delivery standards. Can You Open a Business in an Industrial Zone? Yes, you can. However, industrial zoning is frequently utilized for businesses involved in packaging and manufacturing. Areas designated as industrial-zoned in any city typically include storage facilities and sometimes airports. To begin, search online for a zoning map. Here are five considerations for opening a business in an industrial zone: Type of Business: Ensure your business type aligns with the primary activities allowed in industrial zones, such as manufacturing, warehousing, or assembly. Environmental Concerns: Industrial zones may have regulations or restrictions related to waste disposal, emissions, and pollutants. Make sure your business activities comply. Accessibility: Consider the ease of transportation for your goods, proximity to suppliers, and accessibility for any potential employees or visitors. Noise and Operation Hours: Industrial zones might have more lenient rules regarding noise and operating hours, allowing businesses to run machinery or processes that are louder without disturbing nearby residences. Safety Regulations: Due to the nature of activities in industrial zones, there might be strict safety and health regulations. Ensure that your business meets all standards to avoid potential liabilities. How Do You Locate a Zoning Map by Address? Navigate the web to your city and look for interactive zoning research tools. You should be able to click on a zoning area from there. You can find a local map on the google platform and even get a translation if necessary. A swift search will yield links to several different choices. Seek out an interactive map that allows you to input an address to begin your planning. Here’s a link to a National Zoning Atlas that can help set you on the right path. You may also require some translation options, so consider using Google. How Do You Find Your Local Zoning Regulations? The initial step is to find your property on city zoning maps or by visiting your local municipality. It’s quick to locate links to an interactive map on the city website. Once you locate a zoning area, you can click on the links that direct you to a specific bylaw section. If your property is not listed, you may need to reach out to the city planning department. READ MORE: What is Zoning? Image: Envato Elements This article, "What Is a Zoning Map?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

A zoning map shows the acceptable uses for property in a city or other area. Zoning information on these maps usually tells which areas are zoned for residential and/or commercial use. What Is a Zoning Map? These are an important part of urban planning. Cities, municipalities, and other types of government divide the property up into land-use zones. A city using this type of ordinance can have several zoning districts like commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial. Zoning maps need to show clear boundaries. Read on to find out more about this subject. And remember that Google Translate can help you with the right language. There are 108 different ones to choose from with the Google Translate app. Who Uses a Zoning Map? Zoning information that you can find in these maps is used by municipalities. This is how they set their general policies for land use and how these rules serve the way a city or other area gets developed and divided up. A business looking to set up a shop might need to look at a map and check out the zoning regulations. They might need to apply for rezoning. Even homeowners should check zoning maps before they renovate. There are zoning bylaws that can affect your property in a city. Why Do You Need a Zoning Map? These show the different land-use zones, districts, and/or overlays. One of the big reasons these maps are created is to show the regulations for development in each of the zones. It’s possible to get a minor variance if your proposed changes don’t conform to zoning bylaws. The right map can tell you more about land use and the current zoning. It can be the first stage in planning a new business build or custom house. What Does a Zoning Map Tell You? Remember, there’s no federal agency that controls zoning. You might own your own property but you still need to abide by the planning laws for your city. One of these maps provides residents with information on how land designated for building can be utilized and where it can be situated. A zoning map can also specify the height and dimensions of buildings and other structures. Additionally, it may outline requirements for parking and landscaping, as well as the dimensions and sizes of lots. CategoryDescription Land UseSpecifies how land can be utilized (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial). Building LocationDefines where buildings can be placed within a lot or parcel. Building HeightDictates the maximum allowable height of structures. Building SizeProvides the maximum size or footprint of buildings. Parking RequirementsOutlines the number of parking spots needed for a building or lot. Landscape RequirementsSpecifies required green spaces, trees, and other landscaping elements. Lot DimensionsDetails the minimum and maximum allowable lot sizes. Lot SizesIndicates the size of plots, which can determine the type and size of development. Where Can You Find Zoning Maps? If you want to navigate through the land use for a property, you’ll need to find the right zoning. Looking for zoning in a bigger city? Be aware the process began with the ordinances started in Los Angeles in 1904. If you’re searching for an online resource, MapLink offers an interactive zoning map. This planning tool features a user-friendly menu. It’s particularly useful for determining where you can establish a business or understanding the potential uses for your property in a city. If you’re considering options overseas, you may require translation services. The National Zoning Atlas is another resource on the web. There are a variety of links on the menu and different landing pages. The site is all about digitizing the 30,000 US zoning codes and supplying links on the Internet. Don’t forget the Google Translate app works with images. It’s been developed so users can translate the text. Translations can be helpful if you’re looking at zoning in unfamiliar areas. Common Zoning Categories Effective planning for businesses involves understanding how to utilize their property within a city. The first step is locating a zoning map on a reliable site. Additionally, entrepreneurs and users of the map should familiarize themselves with the typical categories found in each city. Residential Zoning This is commonly found on different city maps. Residential zones can include condominiums, co-ops, duplexes, apartments, and even trailer parks. The major designation is single-family residences. Commercial Zoning This has several categories. In a city, this zoning can serve shopping centers, nightclubs, and hotels as well as office buildings and shopping centers. Even a vacant apartment building that has the potential for development can be considered commercial. Agricultural Zoning This type of zoning covers a city or other area that intends to protect farmland. Part of the planning involved is designed to limit suburban sprawl. The type of structures that can be built is limited. Industrial Zoning Industrial zoning can include noise concerns and environmental factors to determine how the planning for the area unfolds. Factors like building heights and floor area ratios are important to map users. What Does Zoning in Retail Mean? Zoning ordinances include retail properties. In fact, the term retail property is an ordinance itself. It describes a property that is used as a retail enterprise or space. Companies can operate businesses and sell goods and services in zones that are retail locations. Zoning Maps for Small Businesses: A Practical Guide When planning to start or relocate a small business, understanding zoning maps is crucial. These maps dictate what activities can take place in specific areas, directly impacting where your business can operate. Here’s how small businesses can navigate zoning maps effectively: Identify Suitable Zones: Begin by identifying the zoning classifications that permit your type of business. Commercial, industrial, and mixed-use zones are common designations where small businesses are allowed. However, specific restrictions within these categories can vary significantly. Utilize Online Resources: Many municipalities offer online zoning maps and databases. Utilize these digital tools to search for properties by address and view their zoning classification. This initial step can save time and resources before investing in a particular location. Understand Permitted Uses: Once you’ve identified potential zones, delve into the specifics of what is allowed within those zones. For instance, a commercial zone might permit retail but not manufacturing. Understanding these nuances is key to ensuring your business operates legally. Consider Future Growth: When examining zoning maps, think about your business’s future growth. Ensure the zone you’re considering not only fits your current needs but also offers flexibility for expansion, whether through additional commercial activities or physical space. Look for Special Provisions: Some zones have special provisions or overlays that could benefit your business, such as incentives for small businesses, reduced taxes, or grants for beautifying commercial spaces. These can provide a competitive edge and financial benefits. Engage with Planning Departments: If you’re unsure about the zoning requirements or potential restrictions, contact your local planning department. They can provide clarity on zoning laws, potential rezoning processes, or variances that might apply to your business. Prepare for Rezoning or Variance Requests: In some cases, the ideal location for your business may not be zoned appropriately. Be prepared to petition for rezoning or a variance. This process can be lengthy and may require community engagement, so factor this into your planning. Quick Reference Guide: Check zoning maps early in your location selection process. Use digital tools for easy access to zoning information. Understand the specific permitted uses within your desired zone. Plan for both current needs and future growth. Investigate special provisions that could benefit your business. Engage with local planning departments for guidance. Be prepared to navigate rezoning or variance processes if necessary. Navigating zoning maps can initially seem daunting for small business owners. However, with careful research and planning, these maps can be a valuable resource in selecting the perfect location for your business, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and planning for long-term success. Do You Need a Zoning Permit for a Home-based Business? Residents who want to start a home-based business should check with the city where they live. Planning a successful home-based business depends on the type. Local zoning laws might prohibit things like fixing cars out of a home garage. If you’re planning on putting a sign outside your property, you’ll need to check the local ordinances. Make sure to check with your city. Some have rules for environmental safety and delivery standards. Can You Open a Business in an Industrial Zone? Yes, you can. However, industrial zoning is frequently utilized for businesses involved in packaging and manufacturing. Areas designated as industrial-zoned in any city typically include storage facilities and sometimes airports. To begin, search online for a zoning map. Here are five considerations for opening a business in an industrial zone: Type of Business: Ensure your business type aligns with the primary activities allowed in industrial zones, such as manufacturing, warehousing, or assembly. Environmental Concerns: Industrial zones may have regulations or restrictions related to waste disposal, emissions, and pollutants. Make sure your business activities comply. Accessibility: Consider the ease of transportation for your goods, proximity to suppliers, and accessibility for any potential employees or visitors. Noise and Operation Hours: Industrial zones might have more lenient rules regarding noise and operating hours, allowing businesses to run machinery or processes that are louder without disturbing nearby residences. Safety Regulations: Due to the nature of activities in industrial zones, there might be strict safety and health regulations. Ensure that your business meets all standards to avoid potential liabilities. How Do You Locate a Zoning Map by Address? Navigate the web to your city and look for interactive zoning research tools. You should be able to click on a zoning area from there. You can find a local map on the google platform and even get a translation if necessary. A swift search will yield links to several different choices. Seek out an interactive map that allows you to input an address to begin your planning. Here’s a link to a National Zoning Atlas that can help set you on the right path. You may also require some translation options, so consider using Google. How Do You Find Your Local Zoning Regulations? The initial step is to find your property on city zoning maps or by visiting your local municipality. It’s quick to locate links to an interactive map on the city website. Once you locate a zoning area, you can click on the links that direct you to a specific bylaw section. If your property is not listed, you may need to reach out to the city planning department. READ MORE: What is Zoning? Image: Envato Elements This article, "What Is a Zoning Map?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google introduced a new prediction model to better evaluate the quality of landing page experiences for search ads. This update is designed to reduce frustrating ad experiences and make it easier for users to find the information they need without unnecessary backtracking. Driving the news. Google’s new model improves its ability to predict whether a landing page provides a seamless experience. The focus is on reducing “unexpected destinations” by evaluating whether pages offer easy navigation to relevant content. Ads leading to hard-to-navigate pages are now less likely to appear in search results. Why we care. This update encourages advertisers to prioritize user-friendly, easily navigable landing pages. Ads leading to confusing or irrelevant destinations are less likely to appear in search results, which could impact traffic for businesses with poorly optimized pages. By investing in creating seamless navigation experiences, you will likely see better engagement and long-term value from your search campaigns. How it works. Previously, Google’s systems primarily assessed the relevance of landing page content. The updated approach puts greater emphasis on the overall user experience, including navigational clarity. Real-world example. If a user clicks on an ad expecting a login page but is directed to a promotional page instead: Old experience: The user struggles to find the login link and returns to search results in frustration. New experience: The user can quickly find the login link from the promotional page, avoiding the need to return to Google Search. Bottom line. Google’s update underscores the importance of creating relevant, user-friendly landing pages. For advertisers. To stay competitive, brands should ensure their landing pages are intuitive and help users efficiently access desired information. Navigability improvements can boost engagement and lead to long-term value for both users and advertisers. What’s next. Google plans to continue refining its ads quality systems as search behavior evolves. Expect further updates focused on improving ad experiences and delivering more relevant results. View the full article

Thousands of miles from Elon Musk’s office in the White House complex, a federal worker based in the Pacific Northwest is wondering whether to quit. Musk, one of President Donald Trump’s most powerful advisers, has orchestrated an unprecedented financial incentive for people to leave their government jobs, promising several months of pay in return for their resignation. The worker, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, wants to take the money and move overseas. But she’s worried. What if the offer is too good to be true? What if this is really a covert effort to make a list of disloyal government employees? Her situation is a microcosm of the uncertainty sweeping through the federal government, which is the country’s single largest employer. More than two million workers—analysts, nurses, scientists, accountants, food inspectors, and loan processors—face a deadline of 11:59 p.m. EST Thursday to decide if they should leave. Trump administration is urging workers to take the deal The deferred resignation program is part of Trump’s plan to remake the federal government, weakening what allies describe as the “deep state” that undermined the Republican president during his first term. Administration officials said they can save taxpayer money by presenting employees with “a valuable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to stop working while still collecting a paycheck until September 30. On Wednesday, the administration ramped up its pressure on employees to leave, sending a reminder that layoffs or furloughs could come next. “The majority of federal agencies are likely to be downsized through restructurings, realignments, and reductions in force,” said the message from the Office of Personnel Management, which has been a nexus of Musk’s efforts to downsize the government. The email said anyone who remains will be expected to be “loyal” and “will be subject to enhanced standards of suitability and conduct as we move forward.” Some employees could be reclassified to limit civil service protections as well. “Employees who engage in unlawful behavior or other misconduct will be prioritized for appropriate investigation and discipline, including termination,” the email said. Democrats and unions warn that workers could be stiffed Democrats said workers shouldn’t accept the deferred resignation program because it wasn’t authorized by Congress, raising the risk they won’t get paid. Unions have sued to stop Trump’s plans, and a judge will consider whether to block the buyout offer at a hearing Thursday afternoon in Boston. “It’s a scam and not a buyout,” said Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees. Kelley said he tells workers that “if it was me, I wouldn’t do it.” An employee at the Department of Education, who also spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear of retaliation, said the administration appeared desperate to get people to sign the agreement. However, she said there were too many red flags, such as a clause waiving the right to sue if the government failed to honor its side of the deal. The deal is ‘exactly what it looks like,’ says Trump official Trump put Musk, the world’s richest man, in charge of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, which is a sweeping initiative to reduce the size and scope of the federal government. The original email offering the deferred resignation program was titled “Fork in the road,” echoing a similar message that Musk sent Twitter employees two years ago after he bought the social media platform. Trump administration officials have organized question-and-answer sessions with employees as the deadline approaches. Rachel Oglesby, the chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Education who previously worked at the America First Policy Institute, said Trump is trying to reduce the federal workforce. “I know there’s been a lot of questions out there about whether it’s real and whether it’s a trick,” she said, according to a recording obtained by The Associated Press. “And it’s exactly what it looks like. It’s one of the many tools that he’s using to try to achieve the campaign promise to bring reform to the civil service and changes to D.C.” The issue was also discussed during a meeting with Department of Agriculture employees, according to another recording obtained by the AP. Marlon Taubenheim, a human resources official, acknowledged that “these are very trying times” and “there’s a lot of stress.” “Unfortunately, we don’t have all the answers,” he said. Jacqueline Ponti-Lazaruk, another agency leader, said employees “probably didn’t have the runway of time that you might have liked to make a life-changing decision.” For those who remain, she said, “we’ll just keep plugging along.” Assurances from administration officials have not alleviated concerns across a range of agencies. Some federal workers said they did not trust the validity of the offers, doubting that Trump has the authority to disburse money. Others point to his record of stiffing contractors as a New York real estate mogul. Musk’s plans spark demonstrations in Washington Scattered protests have sprung up outside federal buildings, including on Tuesday at the Office of Personnel Management. “I’m taking a risk and being bold and trying to get more federal workers to take a risk to speak out,” said Dante O’Hara, who said he works for the government. “Because if we don’t, then we’re all going to lose our jobs and they’re going to put all these loyalists or people that will be their shock troops.” Government jobs have often been considered secure positions, but O’Hara said there’s fear in the workforce. The sense from his colleagues is “I don’t know if I’m going to be here tomorrow because, like, we don’t know what’s going to happen.'” Dan Smith, a Maryland resident whose father was a research scientist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, said federal workers are “so underappreciated and so taken for granted.” “It’s one thing to downsize the government. It’s one thing to try to obliterate it,” Smith said. “And that’s what’s going on. And that is what is so frightening and disgusting and requires pushback.” Mary-Jean Burke, a physical therapist for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Indianapolis, said she’s worried that too many people will leave, jeopardizing health care services. Burke, who also serves as a union official, said doubts have also been growing over whether to take the offer. “Originally, I think people were like, ‘I’m out of here,'” she said. But then they saw a social media post from DOGE, which said employees can “take the vacation you always wanted, or just watch movies and chill, while receiving your full government pay and benefits.” The message backfired because “that kind of thing sounded a little bit too good to be true and people were hesitant,” Burke said. Either way, she said, Trump has achieved his apparent goal of shaking up the federal workforce. “Every day, it’s something,” Burke said. “If he signed up to be a disrupter, he’s doing it.” Associated Press writers Nancy Benac, Nathan Ellgren, Gary Fields, Joshua Goodman and Brian Witte contributed to this report. —Chris Megerian, Collin Binkley and Byron Tau, Associated Press View the full article

China’s rise has made the fracturing of the global order into competing power blocs inevitableView the full article

Revised economic forecasts are blow to Labour but buoy stock market and giltsView the full article

It’s been a rough few years for brick-and-mortar retailers. In 2024, numerous big-name companies shuttered or announced their intentions to shutter locations across the country, including Big Lots, Macy’s, CVS, LL Flooring, Walgreens, and Family Dollar. Now a discount retail chain with nearly a hundred stores has announced that it will close all of its locations. That retailer is Bargain Hunt, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection earlier this month. Here’s what you need to know about its bankruptcy and store closings: Why did Bargain Hunt file for bankruptcy? Interestingly, Bargain Hunt has not revealed specific reasons for filing for bankruptcy. Normally, struggling retailers who have gone down the same route will cite falling foot traffic, reduced consumer spending, increased competition, or inflationary pressures as the drivers behind the reason to file for bankruptcy, but so far, Bargain Hunt has not specified its reasons. However, a voluntary petition for bankruptcy that Bargain Hunt’s owner filed with the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee on February 3 suggests the company is struggling. In that filing, Bargain Hunt’s parent company, Essex Technology Group LLC, said it currently had between 1,000 and 5,000 creditors. It also revealed that it had between $50,000,001 and $100 million in estimated liabilities, yet its assets were only between $10,000,001 and $50 million. This means that Bargain Hunt has more liabilities than assets and suggests that it may not have the means to pay all of its existing creditors. Which Bargain Hunt locations are closing? In a press release, Bargain Hunt announced that it will hold going-out-of-business sales at every remaining location. The company says it currently has 92 stores spread across 10 states. The state with the most Bargain Hunt stores is Tennessee, where the company is based. Other states with Bargain Hunt stores are Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, and South Carolina. A full list of all closing locations can be found on the website of Hilco Global, the firm handling Bargain Hunt’s liquidation. You can also use Bargain Hunt’s own online store locator tool to find your closest location. Bargain Hunt says that shoppers will be able to get up to 40% discounts on items in its remaining inventory, including apparel and shoes, toys, lawn and garden supplies, automotive, pet, home decor, and more. However, buyers should be aware that all sales are final. When are Bargain Hunt stores closing? All Bargain Hunt stores are in the process of closing down now. The company has not given a precise date when its stores will close for good, but it has stated that they “are set to close by the end of February 2025.” Will more retailers shut in 2025? Major retailers like Macy’s and Big Lots have already announced store closures for 2025. But those aren’t likely to be the end of it. In January, a report from Coresight Research suggested that up to 15,000 retail stores could be shuttered in 2025. In addition to Big Lots and Macy’s, other retailers have already announced their intention to shutter locations, including Walgreens and Party City, the latter of which is going out of business entirely. As for why so many retail locations may shut their doors in 2025, Coresight said a number of factors were involved, including inflation-weary customers pulling back on spending and increased competition from online retailers. View the full article

Early this year, I asked my team to recommend what we should stop, start, and continue doing in 2025 to improve our collaboration. As a leader, it was a valuable exercise that highlighted to me what we can do to improve different aspects of our working life. This exercise also got me thinking about how to apply the same framework to Google Ads – and use it to define what we should stop, stop, and continue doing to optimize our clients’ Google Ads programs this year. Rethinking optimization: Why Google Ads strategies must evolve Techniques once seen as “best practices” no longer work. As Google Ads has evolved, so has the complexity of optimization. That’s why I can’t name a single best strategy. PPC success will vary depending on many factors. That said, the most important “strategy,” if we can call it that, is a mindset shift. It’s not about narrowly following any particular sure-fire approach. It’s about thinking, testing, and analyzing every method you try. Remember this as you read through my start, stop, and continue recommendations below. There are no strictly good or bad strategies. And a “bad” strategy right now might become a good strategy in the future. With that important caveat, let me walk you through my start, stop, and continue recommendations for different Google Ads optimization strategies in 2025. Keyword strategies Stop Stop trying to squeeze more from your search campaigns by actively bidding on every variation of keywords that has converted. Bidding on keyword variations is a traditional optimization strategy I’ve always trained my team on. We prided ourselves on the ability to spot emerging trends related to our keywords and bid on them. But it isn’t what it used to be – and it can cause more harm than good, especially if no follow-up analysis is done. We stepped away from this strategy quite some time ago. But every once in a while, we get pulled back in. This happened recently with a client account. We identified a handful of trending keyword phrases that stood out and added them to the account. The results? An increase of $5 more per lead (with fewer total leads) and a decrease in conversion rate from 1.28% to 1.10%. We reverted this change. Start Start narrowing and streamlining your keyword lists. Try using broad match of your top converting keywords instead of adding endless variations. Continue Continue to question and test – there’s no single right or wrong strategy. Mastering keyword strategy is a learning curve. There’s no universal approach, and it varies across accounts. Dig deeper: PPC keyword research: What you need to know Performance Max strategies Stop Stop giving up on Performance Max at the first sign of spam leads. B2Bs often see an initial spike in spam when launching PMax, and we’ve abandoned our share of campaigns over the years. But not every PMax campaign will be a home run – some will work, and others won’t. For example, we can see the performance of different PMax asset groups for this B2B client: Because this client can pull their Salesforce data into their Google Ads account, we can see the actual value of the business closed. The top two asset groups look great, but the third – not so much. You win some and lose some. Start Start communicating with your clients to work through these initial issues. We struggled with the above campaign at first. It produced some spam leads. But with lots and lots of communication with the client and their teams, we figured it out. We made some adjustments – and so did the client – to make it work. Continue Continue to optimize Performance Max campaigns. Even though PMax is more automated than Search campaigns, there’s still room for optimization. You can, for example: Review asset groups and pause those that are not performing. Review mobile traffic and performance. In the above campaign, we found that mobile traffic wasn’t converting – and a lot of mobile traffic was coming from PMax. Therefore, we assigned a lower conversion value for mobile traffic. Review your search terms. As with Search campaigns, you can also review your search terms for PMax (although you’ll need a script). But unlike Search, where you can specifically target and exclude (negate) keywords, try thinking about trends and categories that can enhance current targeting. Realize PMax campaigns are a complement to your top-performing Search campaigns. Dig deeper: 5 ways to get the most from Performance Max in 2025 Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. Audience-first strategies Stop Stop thinking of your keyword selections as the whole (or even the most important part) of your ad program strategy. Obsessing over the millions of keyword variations you can bid on to describe your company’s products and services is no longer a viable approach. Start Instead, start building an audience-first strategy. Think about your customers’ needs – and then strategically align your keywords with those needs and the stages of the customer journey. Then, align those ad campaigns with your customers’ big-picture business goals. Continue Continue focusing on value-added components in your Google Ads account that complement your keywords. Use first-party data, such as customer and website audience lists, to include, exclude, and create lookalike opportunities. Last year, we onboarded a client with valuable customer data that their previous agency had ignored. Instead of leveraging this data, the agency kept adding new keywords, cluttering the account with thousands of low-value terms. We proposed an audience-first strategy, requiring a shift in their approach. The client was hesitant to allocate the same budget as before. Despite a smaller budget, we exceeded expectations. Cost per lead dropped significantly, from $100 to $19. High-value conversions increased, prioritizing quality over quantity. We restructured the account, removed thousands of ineffective keywords, and built a strong foundation. By leveraging remarketing and customer lists, we efficiently targeted prospective, past, and current customers. Our approach was simple: we understood the client’s business and goals, then used customer segments to attract new customers while excluding existing ones. This ensured we met each audience’s needs at the right stage of their search journey. Now, with a scalable structure in place, we’ve successfully expanded product offerings and recently launched a new category – something that wouldn’t have been possible under the previous setup. What will you stop, start, and continue in Google Ads in 2025? These start stop, start, and continue recommendations for Google Ads optimization won’t work for every account. But the most critical element of any optimization is review and follow-up. With every change you make to optimize an account, you need to assess what the change improved (or didn’t improve) and then move forward in a way that puts your client closer to their business goals. View the full article

“I knew when I was a child, like 5 years old, I knew I wanted to make beautiful things,” says Helena Bian, founder and CEO of lighting company Harlowe, though it took some time to find her path. After school, Bian became a mechanical and electrical engineer, cutting her teeth at hardware companies like Dewalt, where she learned that the industry was dominated by men who didn’t necessarily share her vision of creating beautiful things, and who would rather just focus on function. She daydreamed about making both until she founded Harlowe, a company that arguably makes some of the most beautiful gadgets you can find today. Bian had an idea for high-design photography and video lighting equipment that’s both portable and functional. Noticing how creators are constantly on the go, ferrying huge suitcases with lighting equipment inside, Bian saw a need for gear that is small and easy to pack and travel with, which led her to prioritize portability in Harlowe’s design philosophy. [Photo: Harlowe] But portability alone wasn’t enough—she needed an aesthetic that would attract those creators, so that her designs could become not only tools for work but also objects of lust. Today there are plenty of professional lighting products that are good and relatively inexpensive, but they all have the same bland, standard look, made of metal, plastic, and LEDs, usually all painted matte black. For Bian, however, functional doesn’t mean bland or ugly, and, she says, “beautiful doesn’t mean expensive.” To be clear, Harlowe’s products are on the pricey side compared to the stuff you can buy from Amazon or AliExpress, but Bian says that they are made to last forever, using metal and leather, with precise manufacturing techniques. She expects her designs to last, just like old Leica or Hasselblad cameras have stayed alive for decades. [Photo: Harlowe] The process Harlowe’s in-house design process is led by Bian, who takes inspiration from vintage cameras. “I want to make sure [our products are] not just something they buy for work but also something they buy because they love,” Bian tells me, noting that she’s observed creators who keep old photo gear around almost like their spirit animals. Even if they’re no longer used for production, she says these items are kept because they’re beautiful, and “because they are something [people] cherish in their heart.” Bian’s designs begin with hand-drawn sketches, from which her team creates 3D models and engineers the guts of the devices until they match her original vision. [Image: Harlowe] The selection of materials is carefully considered to add to an emotional connection with users, mixing aluminum, steel, and leather to provide a full sensory experience for anyone who sees, touches, and smells them. [Photo: Harlowe] Everything is done in-house, including the production itself, with backing from parent company AES Lighting Solutions, a Chinese work lighting corporation with 20 years in the industry. In the end, Bian’s vision is all about maintaining the human connection in Harlowe’s products—leveraging technology to improve functionality. It’s a carefully orchestrated mechanism that combines art, human instinct, and science to create a product that’s as beautiful as it is durable and functional. View the full article

Google has issued another round of significant AI model announcements, upgrading its Gemini offerings across the board to bring users and developers artificial intelligence engines that are, according to the company, more capable and reliable. In the wake of DeepSeek's rise and new OpenAI models, the pace of AI development isn't slowing down. First up, the Gemini 2.0 Flash model that appeared in December for a select few is now rolling out to everyone, so you'll see it in the Gemini apps on desktop and mobile (this actually began appearing last week, so you may have already used it). The Flash models are designed to be faster and more lightweight, without too many performance trade-offs. Google is also making a Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model available for all users to test. It's another "reasoning" model, like the ones we've seen in ChatGPT, where the AI displays its thinking as it goes—with the intention of producing results that are more accurate and more transparent. There's also a version of this model appearing to all users with access to apps included: Google Search, Google Maps, and YouTube. It'll return real-time information from the web, as well as references to Google Maps data (including journey times and location details), and information pulled from YouTube videos. Lastly for the Flash models, Google is making Gemini 2.0 Flash-Lite available to developers. It's the most cost-efficient Gemini model yet—which will appeal to those building tools with Gemini—while still maintaining high levels of processing performance across a variety of multimodal inputs (text, images, and more). Pro-level models You need Gemini Advanced to get at some of these models. Credit: Lifehacker Next up, the even more capable Gemini 2.0 Pro Experimental model is here—a little slower than the Flash equivalents, but better at thinking, writing, coding, and problem solving. This model is now appearing in experimental form for developers, and for any users who are paying $20 a month for Gemini Advanced. "It has the strongest coding performance and ability to handle complex prompts, with better understanding and reasoning of world knowledge, than any model we’ve released so far," says Google. It can also take in two million tokens per prompt, which averages out at about 1.4 million words—roughly the Bible, twice. That's double the capacity of the 2.0 Flash models, and Google provided some benchmarks, too. In the general MMLU-Pro benchmark, we've got scores of 71.6 percent, 77.6 percent, and 79.1 percent respectively for Gemini 2.0 Flash-Lite, 2.0 Flash, and 2.0 Pro, compared to 67.3 percent for 1.5 Flash and 75.8 percent for 1.5 Pro. There are similar improvements across the board on other AI benchmarks, with Gemini 2.0 Pro Experimental hitting a score of 91.8 percent in a leading math test. That compares to 90.9 percent for 2.0 Flash, 86.8 percent for Flash-Lite, 86.5 percent for 1.5 Pro, and 77.9 percent for 1.5 Flash. As is the norm for AI model launches like this, details are thin on the training data used, hallucination risks and inaccuracies, and energy demands—though Google does say the new Flash models are its most efficient yet, while all its latest models are better than ever at reasoning feedback and stopping potential safety and security hacks. View the full article

IRS employees involved in the 2025 tax season will not be allowed to accept a buyout offer from the Trump administration until after the taxpayer filing deadline, according to a letter sent Wednesday to IRS employees. The letter says that “critical filing season positions in Taxpayer Services, Information Technology and the Taxpayer Advocate Service are exempt” from the administration’s buyout plan until May 15. Taxpayers have until April 15 to file their taxes unless they are granted an extension. Union leaders and worker advocates have criticized the proposal and question whether the government will honor any buyout contract. The news comes after President Donald Trump announced a plan to offer buyouts to federal employees through a “deferred resignation program” to quickly reduce the government workforce. The program deadline is Feb. 6, and administration officials said employees who accept will be able to stop working while still collecting a paycheck until Sept. 30. The buyouts, sent to roughly 2.3 million workers, are for all full-time federal employees with some exemptions, including military personnel, employees of the U.S. Postal Service and positions related to immigration enforcement. It’s unclear if IRS workers who accept the buyout would only receive five months of pay instead or if they would also get a full eight months. The federal government employed more than 3 million people as of November, accounting for nearly 1.9% of the nation’s entire civilian workforce, according to the Pew Research Center. Doreen Greenwald, president of the National Treasury Employees Union, has advised all federal workers not to accept the offer, which she says is dubious. “This is not a good deal for them,” Greenwald told The Associated Press. “If you sign this document and then later change your mind, you are left without any power to fight back.” Since federal employees are working under what is called a continuing resolution that keeps the government funded until March — and the Anti-Deficiency Act prohibits agencies from spending more money than is actually appropriated— funding for the buyout plan “has not been approved,” Greenwald said. She added: “I do not recommend people sign the document. They need to have control of their own career, and this document does not give it to them.” The NTEU union represents roughly 150,000 employees in 37 departments and agencies. “This country needs skilled, experienced federal employees,” she said “we are urging people not to take this deal because it will damage the services to the American people and it will harm the federal employees who have dedicated themselves and their career to serving.” Jan. 27 is the official start date of the 2025 tax season and the IRS expects more than 140 million tax returns to be filed by the April 15 deadline. “What most people don’t realize is that 85% of the federal workforce works outside of D.C.,” she said. “They’re your neighbors, your family, your friends. And they deliver key services for the American people.” —Fatima Hussein, Associated Press View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Welcome to “Cookbook of the Week.” This is a series where I highlight cookbooks that are unique, easy to use, or just special to me. While finding a particular recipe online serves a quick purpose, flipping through a truly excellent cookbook has a magic all its own. Casseroles, soups, cakes, pastas, and roasts—many cookbooks give us plenty of ideas to feed a family of four or a crowd of 12. I don’t run across as many recipes made for only two people. As much as I appreciate leftovers, I feel tethered to those containers in my fridge, which is one of the reasons I chose to spotlight Table for Two this week. Yes, Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and that's the other reason: A lot of folks will be looking for inspiration when cooking for their special someone. But you don't need to be coupled up to enjoy this cookbook. It is an inviting book of recipes, with pared down measurements and top notch flavor, perfect for impressing any dining partner. A bit about the bookTable for Two is written by Bre Graham, and hit the shelves in 2023. At first glance, you might think it's a book filled with romantic date night dinners—those are definitely in here, but there’s a lot more to it. Graham makes it quite clear that there are many occasions and many types of relationships that bring two people together at the table. You might be cooking for a younger sibling, your mom, a friend you’re reconnecting with, or for a weekly lunch with your cousin. These meals are special because they feed the heart as well as the stomach. Graham includes a few essays along with a slew of recipes, from entrees, to snacks and cheese boards, to cocktails and sweets. I enjoy the emphasis placed each meal as an experience. As someone who cooks on a deadline for my job, it’s easy for that “get it done and clean it up” mentality to seep into my regular life. Graham includes notes on “Scene Setting” and a section called “Aperitivo Hour” with suggested snack pairings that will remind you that there should be times when a meal feels like an occasion, not least when cooking for your mom. Actually, especially for your mom. A great cookbook for someone who needs to slow downThis is a good book for a person who cooks for, or with, one other person. But portions aside, it offers a reminder that the whole business of cooking—recipes, flavor combinations, pretty plating designs—can be pleasurable. This is a good cookbook for the person in your life (maybe it’s you) who has trouble setting aside a moment for themselves. Someone who’s been eating protein bars in the car or on the subway because that’s the only chance they have to eat “lunch.” Keep your protein bars, but try to set up a table for two at least once a week. It’s important to make space for the quiet and calm moments, and for the people you love. The recipes you can expectThe book is split into two sections, “Easy to Impress” and “Just to Delight.” The first section focuses on recipes that are beautiful but surprisingly easy to toss together—meals that you can put together when you’re tired or it’s getting late. The “Just to Delight” section is meant to be your resource for a sit-down dinner with the works. Both sections are similarly structured with recipes according to time of day, so you can find snacks and breakfast recipes earlier on in the segment, and flip to the back for fancy desserts and casual sweets. There are recipes throughout both sections that run the range between snacking-casual, like the Brown Sauce and Marmalade Bacon Sandwich, to candlelight-and-cloth-napkins, like the Gnudi in Toasted Lemon-Thyme Butter. This is all valuable stuff. A kitchen counter for two can host just as many special moments as a table. The dish I made this week As always, I had trouble choosing one recipe to spotlight. (The hazard of good cookbooks.) I settled on the Rainbow Chard, Polenta and Ricotta, and I wasn’t disappointed—if anything, developed an active case of food coma. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann The recipe is in the “Easy to Impress” section, and though it has a long-ish ingredient list, it really just came down to two components: cooking the chard and cooking the polenta. Easy indeed. The cookware was all stuff any typical kitchen might have (a big whisk or spoon, a large pot and a pan) and the polenta, cheese, and chard were all things I could easily source. For some recipes, Graham also includes a small section with substitutions; if chard isn't around then she recommends using frozen spinach, or even mushrooms. The finished meal was a full, hearty indulgence. I have never had such melty, cheese-pull-tastic polenta in my life. If you scattered some toasted walnuts or even thin candied orange peel over this dish, well, time might stop. The only questionable part is the amount of polenta: It uses nearly two cups of instant. While I have no qualms with instant polenta, it made enough for about six servings—way more than two, even if they’re two very hungry people. So I did end up with leftovers to enjoy tomorrow (certainly not the worst thing to happen to me this week). How to buy itThe hardcover of Table for Two is available online, or as an ebook. If you’re gifting this book, get the hardcover—the paper stock and cover texture offer subtle, tactile delights. As usual, I highly recommend supporting your local brick and mortar bookstores. Search their shelves for this cookbook or see if they can order it to their location. Table for Two: Recipes for the Ones You Love $1.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $1.99 at Amazon View the full article

Exploring franchises under 50k offers a pathway to business ownership without requiring a hefty upfront investment. Contrary to popular belief, entering the world of franchising doesn’t always necessitate a six-figure sum. For aspiring entrepreneurs with a budget of $50,000 or less, a wealth of franchising opportunities awaits that blend affordability with the potential for robust business growth. Here, we present a carefully curated list of 28 top franchises under $50K, providing you with accessible options to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. But first, let’s review some important things to know before buying your dream franchise. READ MORE: See our Franchise Guide What are Some Advantages of Buying a Franchise? There are many advantages to buying a franchise vs. starting your own small business. Perhaps the most appealing is that you are buying into a proven business model. When you buy a franchise, you are essentially buying a turnkey business that comes with all the systems, processes, and support in place to help you succeed. Another advantage of franchising is that it allows you to be your own boss while still having the backing of a larger organization. This can give you peace of mind and a support network to help you through the inevitable challenges of owning your own company. The cost of buying a franchise can also be lower than the cost of starting your business from scratch. When you factor in the cost of marketing, research and development, and other start-up costs, a franchise can actually be a more affordable option. Franchising also allows you to receive training and support from the franchisor. This can be extremely helpful and is one of the reasons why franchises have a higher rate of success than startup companies. The Different Types of Franchises Available Now that we’ve gone over some of the advantages of buying a franchise let’s take a look at the different types of franchises that are available. Franchise ModelInvestment LevelNature of BusinessSupport LevelExample Industries Investment FranchisesHighLarge scale operationsExtensiveHotels, Car Dealerships Business FormatModerate to HighComprehensive system usageComprehensiveFast Food, Retail Distribution FranchisesModerateProduct distribution focusModerateBeverage, Manufacturing Job Model (Low Cost)LowHome-based/IndividualsVariesLawn Care, Cleaning Conversion FranchisesModerateConversion of existing bizModerate with rapid growthRestaurants, Retailers Investment Franchises Investment franchises are for the serious investor looking to make a significant mark in the business world. They require substantial capital, both monetary and time, for a potentially large return on investment (ROI). These franchises are typically well-established brands in sectors that demand a hefty upfront investment, such as luxury hotel chains, expansive full-service restaurants, automobile dealerships, and gas stations. Franchisees in these sectors are often involved in extensive development projects and operate on a large scale, with the end goal being significant profit upon exit or resale of the franchise. Business Format Franchises The business format franchise model is the quintessential image of franchising. Renowned brands like McDonald’s, 7-Eleven, and Ace Hardware epitomize this model, where you’re not just investing in a name; you’re adopting an entire system. As a franchisee, you’ll gain access to the franchisor’s trademark, benefit from an established business model, and receive guidance on every aspect of running the franchise, from operations to marketing. This full-package support is designed to replicate the franchisor’s success in multiple locations, offering a blend of independence and proven business practices. Distribution Franchises Distribution franchises offer a different type of partnership. Instead of operating under the franchisor’s comprehensive system, you primarily sell products under the franchisor’s brand. This model is common in supplier-dealer relationships, where the franchisee is responsible for distributing products manufactured by the franchisor. For instance, being part of the distribution for companies like Coca-Cola or Pepsi means you’re more involved in the supply chain aspect of the business rather than the full breadth of operations. Job Model Franchises (Lowest Cost Business Model) For those looking to enter the franchising world without a hefty investment, job model franchises are an attractive option. These franchises often require minimal capital and are well-suited for home-based businesses or individuals. They focus on providing a service, such as lawn care or cleaning, where the initial investment might include purchasing equipment, a vehicle, and basic marketing to get started. This model is ideal for those seeking to operate independently or with a small team, often appealing to entrepreneurs looking for entry-level franchise opportunities. Conversion Franchises Conversion franchising is a unique model that allows existing independent business owners to convert their operations into franchise units. This model is beneficial for those who want to tap into the franchisor’s brand power, marketing expertise, and operational systems to enhance their business. By converting an independent business, say a local pizzeria, into a Domino’s franchise, the owner can rapidly expand their market reach. This model can result in accelerated growth and the potential for increased revenue with the backing of a brand that has already established a loyal customer base. How to Choose the Right Franchise for You When choosing the best franchises, you’ll want to look for the following: Strong support: A franchisor that provides strong support will help you get your business up and running quickly and smoothly. They will also be there to help you troubleshoot any problems that come up along the way. Proven success: You’ll want to choose a franchisor that has shown success in the industry. Look for a franchisor that has been in business for several years and has a large network of happy franchisees. Clear expectations: Be sure you have a clear understanding of the expectations and requirements of being a franchisee. This includes things like an initial investment that includes royalties, marketing fees, minimum liquidity, and any other ongoing costs. Of course, you’ll want a franchise under $50K, so consider that into everything, too. A good fit: Be sure to choose a franchise that is a good fit for your skills, interests, and lifestyle. Not all franchises are a good fit for everyone, so it’s important to choose one that is right for you. Reviews: Be sure to read reviews of the franchise you’re considering. This will give you a good idea of what other franchisees think about the franchisor and how it’s structured. Due diligence on your part: To have a successful business, you need to start out on the right foot. So, no matter how much the franchise costs, you should always carefully read over business disclosures and legal documents, including the franchise disclosure document. Also, consult with accountants, franchise attorneys, and even the CEO of the franchising company, to mitigate your risk. Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Franchises Under $50K When it comes to identifying the best franchises under $50k, affordability is just the starting point. Potential franchisees look for low-cost opportunities that do not compromise on the potential for profitability and growth. Here’s how we pinpointed the top franchises within this budget-friendly category: Initial Investment and Start-Up Costs (10/10) We concentrate on franchises under 50k, featuring an initial investment that comfortably stays below the $50k mark, making them accessible to a broader array of investors. Profitability and Revenue Potential (9/10) A lower cost of entry must still pair with a sound potential for earnings. We analyze the revenue models and profitability track records of these franchises. Brand Recognition and Market Presence (8/10) Even with smaller investments, brand strength can accelerate business growth. We assess how well-known the franchise is and the market presence it commands. Training and Support (8/10) Comprehensive training and support are vital for the success of any franchise, especially those with lower investment levels. Operational Simplicity (8/10) We look for franchise models that are straightforward and uncomplicated, which often correlates with lower operational costs. Growth Opportunities (7/10) The potential for business growth and the scalability of the franchise model are crucial, even for franchises under 50k. Ongoing Fees and Royalties (7/10) We evaluate the ongoing costs associated with the franchise, ensuring that they remain reasonable and do not erode profit margins. Industry Demand (7/10) Franchises in high-demand industries are more likely to offer a faster return on investment, which is a critical consideration for lower-cost franchises. Flexibility and Lifestyle Compatibility (6/10) Franchises that offer flexibility, such as home-based options, and align with the owner’s lifestyle preferences are particularly appealing in this price range. Franchisee Satisfaction and Reviews (6/10) We consider feedback from current franchisees regarding their satisfaction with the business and the support they receive. Legal and Compliance Support (6/10) Support in navigating the legal aspects of starting and running a franchise is essential, especially for new entrepreneurs. Community and Environmental Impact (6/10) We acknowledge franchises that contribute positively to their communities and adopt environmentally sustainable practices. Our selection of the best franchises under $50k is based on a balance of affordability and the potential for financial success. We aim to recommend franchises that not only fit a modest budget but also offer a comprehensive support system, brand strength, and growth potential, paving the way for rewarding business ownership. Franchise Opportunities You Can Start for under 50K If you are thinking about buying a business franchise and have a budget of 50k or less, the following business opportunities are looking to expand and new need franchisees to increase their footprint across the country. Most of them are in booming industries, too. Skyhawks Sports & Supertots Sports Academy If you enjoy being a mentor to children, Sport & Supertots Sports Academy is the franchise for you. As a franchisee, you will acquire exclusive territories for athletic camps and programs in various sports at community-based organizations like schools and park & rec departments. See details here: Franchise information The Dog Wizard The Dog Wizard, now merged with The Upbeat K-9, is a dog training franchise that offers a wide variety of services, including obedience training, puppy training, behavioral modification, and guidance for dogs with aggression issues. They also have a strong training program for their franchise owners so you can grow. Woof! See details here: Franchise information. Pillar to Post Home Inspectors Pillar to Post Home Inspectors is a home inspection franchise that helps buyers, sellers, and real estate agents by providing top-quality inspections. With their low up-front investment, established processes & technologies, and ongoing support & guidance, they make it easy to get started in the home inspection business. See details here: Franchise information Lil’ Angels Photography Photo studios and photo booth services represent affordable franchise opportunities. If you have a passion for photography and enjoy working with children, Lil’ Angels Photography Studio might be the perfect choice for you. As a franchisee, you’ll have the freedom to be your own boss while assisting parents in capturing their children’s special moments through customized professional photo sessions that cater to every developmental stage. Lil’ Angels offers the potential for six-figure earnings and is a highly cost-effective business option. See details here: Franchise information Kinderdance Area Developer If you have a passion for dance and teaching, you’ll want to check out Kinderdance. As an area developer, you will help to enrich children’s physical, cognitive, and social skills through a curriculum that focuses on yoga, dance, music, and pre-gymnastics. With their low investment cost and strong support system, they make it easy for you to get started in this exciting industry. See details here: Franchise information Window Gang Privately owned franchise Window Gang offers expert window, gutter, dryer vent cleaning, and pressure washing services. As an area developer or franchisee, you work directly with the CEO and help homeowners maintain their homes. With a long and proven track record, strong support system, and high earning potential, Window Gang makes it easy to get started in the exciting home services industry. See details here: Franchise information Class101 Are you seeking an affordable franchise opportunity that offers flexible work hours, significant earning potential, and the ability to positively impact your community? Class101, which requires a low investment and offers high returns, could be the perfect choice for you. This business stands out as one of the top language tutoring franchises in the nation, assisting high school students in gaining admission to better colleges and qualifying for increased financial aid and scholarships. See details here: Franchise information Rooter-Man Rooter-Man has a wealth of experience and offers a wide range of expert plumbing, septic, and drain cleaning services to homeowners across the country. They provide franchise owners with equity in their national brand, meaning your investment will appreciate as time goes by. Whether you want to operate as an independent franchisee or become an area developer with multiple territories, Rooter-Man has a low overhead, ongoing corporate support,t and innovative training. See details here: Franchise information Surface Specialists Bathtub Repair and Refinishing With repairs startup cost at around 40K, this franchise opportunity is nothing to sneeze at. Surface Specialists have been repairing and refinishing kitchen and bathroom surfaces to look new since 1981, and they started franchising a year later. Their gorgeous franchisee work has been showcased on Rehab Addict and Flipping Vegas. If you want to buy a franchise from them, you are supported by a skilled national team that offers training and support for all aspects of your business, from technical to marketing and beyond. See details here: Franchise information ServiceMaster Clean Disinfection Services With 65 years of experience in the industry, ServiceMaster Clean Disinfection Services offers commercial cleaning services and comprehensive training programs for franchisees they take on. They also offer ongoing support to these prospective franchisees, along with generous financial incentives. These incentives include a 20% discount off the startup costs for veterans, a 10% discount for minorities and women, and 80% off financing for startup costs for qualified groups. See details here: Franchise information Young Rembrandts Young Rembrandts is a recognized leader in art education for children aged 3-12. Their unique method of drawing prepares youngsters’ brains for more advanced learning. From coloring to shading and line drawing, their lesson plans are carefully designed with students’ cognitive development in mind. If you decide you want to start a franchise with Young Rembrandts, you will receive one-on-one support from their team of art educators and business experts. See details here: Franchise information? SuperGreen Solutions If you believe in eco stewardship, then owning a SuperGreen Solutions franchise might be a good fit for you. Their mission is to provide businesses and homes with affordable, high-quality, renewable options for heating, air conditioning, and water heating. If you want to own your own SuperGreen franchise, they will help you launch your business quickly and efficiently so that you can start earning revenue right away. See details here: Franchise information Action Coach If you are a business-savvy person who is interested in helping entrepreneurs succeed, then consider franchising with Action Coach. This particular company works internationally to provide business coaching services to help companies grow and thrive, no matter what industry they operate in. Their coaches have years of experience working with small businesses and can offer practical guidance to help you launch and manage your own franchise. See details here: Franchise information Anago Cleaning Systems Anago Cleaning Systems is a top choice for anyone looking to start their own cleaning franchise. This commercial cleaning business offers its franchisees comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and marketing materials so you can get your business off the ground quickly and easily. Whether you want to specialize in carpet cleaning, window washing, or commercial janitorial services, Anago will provide you with everything you need to succeed. See details here: Franchise information H&R Block H&R Block is the industry leader in tax preparation services. As one of the most well-known franchising opportunities in the country, they feature excellent organization training and development, which leverages entrepreneurs to start their own tax services businesses. Franchisees operate a tax return preparation business where they may also have rights to offer payroll services, bookkeeping, and training. See details here: Franchise information Paymore Electronic sales stores are often profitable, and Paymore is no exception. There are other advantages to buying one of their franchises, too, including low overheads, high consumer demand, and high customer retention rates. Their proprietary software makes operations easy, and you can combine multiple revenue streams such as consumer electronics, pawn, eCommerce, and second-hand retail for growth and better profitability. See details here: Franchise information Property Management Inc For individuals familiar with the real estate sector, Property Management Inc. offers an outstanding home-based franchise opportunity for real estate agents, particularly those skilled in negotiation. This property management franchise provides continuous support, access to company resources, business training, and third-party financing, making it an excellent choice for franchises under 50k. See details here: Franchise information Jazzercise With their signature dance-fitness workouts and personal training programs, Jazzercise provides franchisees with an established business model that offers an excellent return on investment. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience in the fitness industry, Jazzercise is one of the top franchises for entrepreneurs who want to build a profitable business that helps people maintain a healthy lifestyle. See details here: Franchise information Drama Kids International This low-cost home-based franchise offers a unique opportunity to work with young children. With a focus on creativity and communication skills, Drama Kids offers classes for kids that help them develop confidence and social skills through interactive theatre games and exercises. Before opening your franchise, Drama Kids will ensure that you acquire the necessary training, marketing, administration, and management skills before you open. See details here: Franchise information TSS Photography TSS Photography is one of the leading photography franchises in the country, with a focus on providing safe and secure photography services for schools, sports teams, and other organizations. With its cutting-edge technology and years of experience, TSS Photography is the perfect choice for entrepreneurs who want to start their own photo businesses. See details here: Franchise information Naturals2Go With an emphasis on offering healthy and nutritious smoothies and snacks crafted from natural ingredients, Naturals2Go stands out as a top franchise in the health food sector. Whether you are a newcomer or seeking to grow your current business, owning a Naturals2Go franchise presents a fantastic opportunity to create a profitable venture that contributes to healthier living. See details here: Franchise information Champs Chicken Chicken restaurants are one of those service-based franchises that are on the rise. Champs Chicken is an example of this, and with a proven record of success and no experience needed, this low-cost turnkey business opportunity is an excellent opportunity to build a profitable business in the fast food industry. Champs Chicken serves delicious fried chicken, pork loin, and shrimp with sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens. They offer their franchisees perks like fanatical support, ample marketing funds, and hefty margins. See details here: Franchise information Proforma Printing Solutions Franchising since 1985, Proforma Printing Solutions has more than 40 years of experience working with a wide range of industries. The company focuses on providing high-quality printing services for businesses of all sizes, including print management, digital and offset printing, fulfillment services, mailing services, and more. You will need to be confident and good with people since working with customers requires a professional and friendly approach. Printing and promotional products startup cost: $5K-$60K Units in operation: 600+ See details here: Franchise information Estrella Insurance Estrella Insurance is a property and casualty insurance agency. With more than 20 years of experience in providing affordable car and home insurance, they are a reliable choice for anyone looking to franchise with them. They offer their franchisees marketing & advertising services, onboarding and support, brand strength, and an established corporate model, ensuring that you have everything you need to succeed as an entrepreneur with Estrella Insurance. See details here: Franchise information Mint Condition Mint Condition has provided comprehensive cleaning, disinfecting, and janitorial services to their commercial customers since 1996. The commercial cleaning startup cost with them is one of the lowest on this list, and their team is powered by a network of hard-working regional offices and franchisees. The franchisors provide a comprehensive training program, flexible financing and ongoing support to help you succeed in business and ‘mint’ money. See details here: Franchise information Town Money Saver For another very low-cost franchise opportunity, we have Town Money Saver. TMS is a digital monthly community magazine that provides coupons and features for local businesses and advertisers. Their goal is to provide effective, cost-effective advertising for local companies that allows them to compete with bigger national chains. With no experience, employees, or inventory needed and with a minimal initial investment, owning a Town Money Saver franchise is an excellent opportunity to own a company in the publishing industry. See details here: Franchise information Superglass Windshield Repair SuperGlass Windshield Repair has been operating for 30 years and specializes in repairing any wayward glass scratch or crack on your auto windshield. It’s one of the more budget-friendly franchises on this list, with the high end of startup costs only being $31K. Also, overhead costs can be kept low due to its mobile option — a physical shop location is not required. It also offers classroom and on-the-job training. See details here: Franchise information ACFN Automated Teller Machines This is one of the hot ATM franchise ops that Small Biz Trends reported on back in September. ACFN provides automated teller machine services to hotels and other travel and entertainment-based businesses. The franchisors offer all you need to get your own ATM private network started, including site selection, lease negotiation, equipment, and signage. See details here: Franchise information Mattress by Appointment As far as low-cost franchises go, it’s hard to beat this one. You only need $20,000 to get started with Mattress by Appointment, which includes your opening inventory, advertising, and leasehold expenses. In addition, there is no training cost, franchise fee, or setup fee. You get lots of flexibility because Mattress by Appointment lets you work independently and make your own schedule. See details here: Franchise information Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning Oxi Fresh is a green carpet cleaning service and a world leader in environmental sustainability. They use the power of oxygen to leave the carpets of residential and business customers clean and dry in just one hour. With Oxi Fresh, you can work as much or as little as you want, and they offer comprehensive training, marketing support, ongoing education, and more to help franchisees succeed. With a booming industry and solid business plan, owning an Oxi Fresh franchise could be the perfect opportunity for you to start your own business. See details here: Franchise information The Most Profitable Franchises Under 50K This can be a bit of a challenge to answer, as it depends on several different factors, including your location, industry experience, and how well you manage your business. Some of the most lucrative franchises under 50K include Jazzercise, Town Money Saver, and Superglass Windshield Repair. Both are successful with low small business startup costs and no initial experience or inventory needed. Other popular franchise opportunities include ACFN Automated Teller Machines and Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning. Additionally, bear in mind that franchisors will often list revenue and profitability cases in their franchise packages. However, as a potential franchise owner, be sure to do your due diligence and ensure that the franchise you choose is sustainable and not just a flash in the pan. Ultimately, the most profitable franchise opportunity will be the one that best suits your needs and skillset. So, consider all of your options carefully before making a decision. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Franchises Under $50K" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Exploring franchises under 50k offers a pathway to business ownership without requiring a hefty upfront investment. Contrary to popular belief, entering the world of franchising doesn’t always necessitate a six-figure sum. For aspiring entrepreneurs with a budget of $50,000 or less, a wealth of franchising opportunities awaits that blend affordability with the potential for robust business growth. Here, we present a carefully curated list of 28 top franchises under $50K, providing you with accessible options to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. But first, let’s review some important things to know before buying your dream franchise. READ MORE: See our Franchise Guide What are Some Advantages of Buying a Franchise? There are many advantages to buying a franchise vs. starting your own small business. Perhaps the most appealing is that you are buying into a proven business model. When you buy a franchise, you are essentially buying a turnkey business that comes with all the systems, processes, and support in place to help you succeed. Another advantage of franchising is that it allows you to be your own boss while still having the backing of a larger organization. This can give you peace of mind and a support network to help you through the inevitable challenges of owning your own company. The cost of buying a franchise can also be lower than the cost of starting your business from scratch. When you factor in the cost of marketing, research and development, and other start-up costs, a franchise can actually be a more affordable option. Franchising also allows you to receive training and support from the franchisor. This can be extremely helpful and is one of the reasons why franchises have a higher rate of success than startup companies. The Different Types of Franchises Available Now that we’ve gone over some of the advantages of buying a franchise let’s take a look at the different types of franchises that are available. Franchise ModelInvestment LevelNature of BusinessSupport LevelExample Industries Investment FranchisesHighLarge scale operationsExtensiveHotels, Car Dealerships Business FormatModerate to HighComprehensive system usageComprehensiveFast Food, Retail Distribution FranchisesModerateProduct distribution focusModerateBeverage, Manufacturing Job Model (Low Cost)LowHome-based/IndividualsVariesLawn Care, Cleaning Conversion FranchisesModerateConversion of existing bizModerate with rapid growthRestaurants, Retailers Investment Franchises Investment franchises are for the serious investor looking to make a significant mark in the business world. They require substantial capital, both monetary and time, for a potentially large return on investment (ROI). These franchises are typically well-established brands in sectors that demand a hefty upfront investment, such as luxury hotel chains, expansive full-service restaurants, automobile dealerships, and gas stations. Franchisees in these sectors are often involved in extensive development projects and operate on a large scale, with the end goal being significant profit upon exit or resale of the franchise. Business Format Franchises The business format franchise model is the quintessential image of franchising. Renowned brands like McDonald’s, 7-Eleven, and Ace Hardware epitomize this model, where you’re not just investing in a name; you’re adopting an entire system. As a franchisee, you’ll gain access to the franchisor’s trademark, benefit from an established business model, and receive guidance on every aspect of running the franchise, from operations to marketing. This full-package support is designed to replicate the franchisor’s success in multiple locations, offering a blend of independence and proven business practices. Distribution Franchises Distribution franchises offer a different type of partnership. Instead of operating under the franchisor’s comprehensive system, you primarily sell products under the franchisor’s brand. This model is common in supplier-dealer relationships, where the franchisee is responsible for distributing products manufactured by the franchisor. For instance, being part of the distribution for companies like Coca-Cola or Pepsi means you’re more involved in the supply chain aspect of the business rather than the full breadth of operations. Job Model Franchises (Lowest Cost Business Model) For those looking to enter the franchising world without a hefty investment, job model franchises are an attractive option. These franchises often require minimal capital and are well-suited for home-based businesses or individuals. They focus on providing a service, such as lawn care or cleaning, where the initial investment might include purchasing equipment, a vehicle, and basic marketing to get started. This model is ideal for those seeking to operate independently or with a small team, often appealing to entrepreneurs looking for entry-level franchise opportunities. Conversion Franchises Conversion franchising is a unique model that allows existing independent business owners to convert their operations into franchise units. This model is beneficial for those who want to tap into the franchisor’s brand power, marketing expertise, and operational systems to enhance their business. By converting an independent business, say a local pizzeria, into a Domino’s franchise, the owner can rapidly expand their market reach. This model can result in accelerated growth and the potential for increased revenue with the backing of a brand that has already established a loyal customer base. How to Choose the Right Franchise for You When choosing the best franchises, you’ll want to look for the following: Strong support: A franchisor that provides strong support will help you get your business up and running quickly and smoothly. They will also be there to help you troubleshoot any problems that come up along the way. Proven success: You’ll want to choose a franchisor that has shown success in the industry. Look for a franchisor that has been in business for several years and has a large network of happy franchisees. Clear expectations: Be sure you have a clear understanding of the expectations and requirements of being a franchisee. This includes things like an initial investment that includes royalties, marketing fees, minimum liquidity, and any other ongoing costs. Of course, you’ll want a franchise under $50K, so consider that into everything, too. A good fit: Be sure to choose a franchise that is a good fit for your skills, interests, and lifestyle. Not all franchises are a good fit for everyone, so it’s important to choose one that is right for you. Reviews: Be sure to read reviews of the franchise you’re considering. This will give you a good idea of what other franchisees think about the franchisor and how it’s structured. Due diligence on your part: To have a successful business, you need to start out on the right foot. So, no matter how much the franchise costs, you should always carefully read over business disclosures and legal documents, including the franchise disclosure document. Also, consult with accountants, franchise attorneys, and even the CEO of the franchising company, to mitigate your risk. Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Franchises Under $50K When it comes to identifying the best franchises under $50k, affordability is just the starting point. Potential franchisees look for low-cost opportunities that do not compromise on the potential for profitability and growth. Here’s how we pinpointed the top franchises within this budget-friendly category: Initial Investment and Start-Up Costs (10/10) We concentrate on franchises under 50k, featuring an initial investment that comfortably stays below the $50k mark, making them accessible to a broader array of investors. Profitability and Revenue Potential (9/10) A lower cost of entry must still pair with a sound potential for earnings. We analyze the revenue models and profitability track records of these franchises. Brand Recognition and Market Presence (8/10) Even with smaller investments, brand strength can accelerate business growth. We assess how well-known the franchise is and the market presence it commands. Training and Support (8/10) Comprehensive training and support are vital for the success of any franchise, especially those with lower investment levels. Operational Simplicity (8/10) We look for franchise models that are straightforward and uncomplicated, which often correlates with lower operational costs. Growth Opportunities (7/10) The potential for business growth and the scalability of the franchise model are crucial, even for franchises under 50k. Ongoing Fees and Royalties (7/10) We evaluate the ongoing costs associated with the franchise, ensuring that they remain reasonable and do not erode profit margins. Industry Demand (7/10) Franchises in high-demand industries are more likely to offer a faster return on investment, which is a critical consideration for lower-cost franchises. Flexibility and Lifestyle Compatibility (6/10) Franchises that offer flexibility, such as home-based options, and align with the owner’s lifestyle preferences are particularly appealing in this price range. Franchisee Satisfaction and Reviews (6/10) We consider feedback from current franchisees regarding their satisfaction with the business and the support they receive. Legal and Compliance Support (6/10) Support in navigating the legal aspects of starting and running a franchise is essential, especially for new entrepreneurs. Community and Environmental Impact (6/10) We acknowledge franchises that contribute positively to their communities and adopt environmentally sustainable practices. Our selection of the best franchises under $50k is based on a balance of affordability and the potential for financial success. We aim to recommend franchises that not only fit a modest budget but also offer a comprehensive support system, brand strength, and growth potential, paving the way for rewarding business ownership. Franchise Opportunities You Can Start for under 50K If you are thinking about buying a business franchise and have a budget of 50k or less, the following business opportunities are looking to expand and new need franchisees to increase their footprint across the country. Most of them are in booming industries, too. Skyhawks Sports & Supertots Sports Academy If you enjoy being a mentor to children, Sport & Supertots Sports Academy is the franchise for you. As a franchisee, you will acquire exclusive territories for athletic camps and programs in various sports at community-based organizations like schools and park & rec departments. See details here: Franchise information The Dog Wizard The Dog Wizard, now merged with The Upbeat K-9, is a dog training franchise that offers a wide variety of services, including obedience training, puppy training, behavioral modification, and guidance for dogs with aggression issues. They also have a strong training program for their franchise owners so you can grow. Woof! See details here: Franchise information. Pillar to Post Home Inspectors Pillar to Post Home Inspectors is a home inspection franchise that helps buyers, sellers, and real estate agents by providing top-quality inspections. With their low up-front investment, established processes & technologies, and ongoing support & guidance, they make it easy to get started in the home inspection business. See details here: Franchise information Lil’ Angels Photography Photo studios and photo booth services represent affordable franchise opportunities. If you have a passion for photography and enjoy working with children, Lil’ Angels Photography Studio might be the perfect choice for you. As a franchisee, you’ll have the freedom to be your own boss while assisting parents in capturing their children’s special moments through customized professional photo sessions that cater to every developmental stage. Lil’ Angels offers the potential for six-figure earnings and is a highly cost-effective business option. See details here: Franchise information Kinderdance Area Developer If you have a passion for dance and teaching, you’ll want to check out Kinderdance. As an area developer, you will help to enrich children’s physical, cognitive, and social skills through a curriculum that focuses on yoga, dance, music, and pre-gymnastics. With their low investment cost and strong support system, they make it easy for you to get started in this exciting industry. See details here: Franchise information Window Gang Privately owned franchise Window Gang offers expert window, gutter, dryer vent cleaning, and pressure washing services. As an area developer or franchisee, you work directly with the CEO and help homeowners maintain their homes. With a long and proven track record, strong support system, and high earning potential, Window Gang makes it easy to get started in the exciting home services industry. See details here: Franchise information Class101 Are you seeking an affordable franchise opportunity that offers flexible work hours, significant earning potential, and the ability to positively impact your community? Class101, which requires a low investment and offers high returns, could be the perfect choice for you. This business stands out as one of the top language tutoring franchises in the nation, assisting high school students in gaining admission to better colleges and qualifying for increased financial aid and scholarships. See details here: Franchise information Rooter-Man Rooter-Man has a wealth of experience and offers a wide range of expert plumbing, septic, and drain cleaning services to homeowners across the country. They provide franchise owners with equity in their national brand, meaning your investment will appreciate as time goes by. Whether you want to operate as an independent franchisee or become an area developer with multiple territories, Rooter-Man has a low overhead, ongoing corporate support,t and innovative training. See details here: Franchise information Surface Specialists Bathtub Repair and Refinishing With repairs startup cost at around 40K, this franchise opportunity is nothing to sneeze at. Surface Specialists have been repairing and refinishing kitchen and bathroom surfaces to look new since 1981, and they started franchising a year later. Their gorgeous franchisee work has been showcased on Rehab Addict and Flipping Vegas. If you want to buy a franchise from them, you are supported by a skilled national team that offers training and support for all aspects of your business, from technical to marketing and beyond. See details here: Franchise information ServiceMaster Clean Disinfection Services With 65 years of experience in the industry, ServiceMaster Clean Disinfection Services offers commercial cleaning services and comprehensive training programs for franchisees they take on. They also offer ongoing support to these prospective franchisees, along with generous financial incentives. These incentives include a 20% discount off the startup costs for veterans, a 10% discount for minorities and women, and 80% off financing for startup costs for qualified groups. See details here: Franchise information Young Rembrandts Young Rembrandts is a recognized leader in art education for children aged 3-12. Their unique method of drawing prepares youngsters’ brains for more advanced learning. From coloring to shading and line drawing, their lesson plans are carefully designed with students’ cognitive development in mind. If you decide you want to start a franchise with Young Rembrandts, you will receive one-on-one support from their team of art educators and business experts. See details here: Franchise information? SuperGreen Solutions If you believe in eco stewardship, then owning a SuperGreen Solutions franchise might be a good fit for you. Their mission is to provide businesses and homes with affordable, high-quality, renewable options for heating, air conditioning, and water heating. If you want to own your own SuperGreen franchise, they will help you launch your business quickly and efficiently so that you can start earning revenue right away. See details here: Franchise information Action Coach If you are a business-savvy person who is interested in helping entrepreneurs succeed, then consider franchising with Action Coach. This particular company works internationally to provide business coaching services to help companies grow and thrive, no matter what industry they operate in. Their coaches have years of experience working with small businesses and can offer practical guidance to help you launch and manage your own franchise. See details here: Franchise information Anago Cleaning Systems Anago Cleaning Systems is a top choice for anyone looking to start their own cleaning franchise. This commercial cleaning business offers its franchisees comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and marketing materials so you can get your business off the ground quickly and easily. Whether you want to specialize in carpet cleaning, window washing, or commercial janitorial services, Anago will provide you with everything you need to succeed. See details here: Franchise information H&R Block H&R Block is the industry leader in tax preparation services. As one of the most well-known franchising opportunities in the country, they feature excellent organization training and development, which leverages entrepreneurs to start their own tax services businesses. Franchisees operate a tax return preparation business where they may also have rights to offer payroll services, bookkeeping, and training. See details here: Franchise information Paymore Electronic sales stores are often profitable, and Paymore is no exception. There are other advantages to buying one of their franchises, too, including low overheads, high consumer demand, and high customer retention rates. Their proprietary software makes operations easy, and you can combine multiple revenue streams such as consumer electronics, pawn, eCommerce, and second-hand retail for growth and better profitability. See details here: Franchise information Property Management Inc For individuals familiar with the real estate sector, Property Management Inc. offers an outstanding home-based franchise opportunity for real estate agents, particularly those skilled in negotiation. This property management franchise provides continuous support, access to company resources, business training, and third-party financing, making it an excellent choice for franchises under 50k. See details here: Franchise information Jazzercise With their signature dance-fitness workouts and personal training programs, Jazzercise provides franchisees with an established business model that offers an excellent return on investment. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience in the fitness industry, Jazzercise is one of the top franchises for entrepreneurs who want to build a profitable business that helps people maintain a healthy lifestyle. See details here: Franchise information Drama Kids International This low-cost home-based franchise offers a unique opportunity to work with young children. With a focus on creativity and communication skills, Drama Kids offers classes for kids that help them develop confidence and social skills through interactive theatre games and exercises. Before opening your franchise, Drama Kids will ensure that you acquire the necessary training, marketing, administration, and management skills before you open. See details here: Franchise information TSS Photography TSS Photography is one of the leading photography franchises in the country, with a focus on providing safe and secure photography services for schools, sports teams, and other organizations. With its cutting-edge technology and years of experience, TSS Photography is the perfect choice for entrepreneurs who want to start their own photo businesses. See details here: Franchise information Naturals2Go With an emphasis on offering healthy and nutritious smoothies and snacks crafted from natural ingredients, Naturals2Go stands out as a top franchise in the health food sector. Whether you are a newcomer or seeking to grow your current business, owning a Naturals2Go franchise presents a fantastic opportunity to create a profitable venture that contributes to healthier living. See details here: Franchise information Champs Chicken Chicken restaurants are one of those service-based franchises that are on the rise. Champs Chicken is an example of this, and with a proven record of success and no experience needed, this low-cost turnkey business opportunity is an excellent opportunity to build a profitable business in the fast food industry. Champs Chicken serves delicious fried chicken, pork loin, and shrimp with sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens. They offer their franchisees perks like fanatical support, ample marketing funds, and hefty margins. See details here: Franchise information Proforma Printing Solutions Franchising since 1985, Proforma Printing Solutions has more than 40 years of experience working with a wide range of industries. The company focuses on providing high-quality printing services for businesses of all sizes, including print management, digital and offset printing, fulfillment services, mailing services, and more. You will need to be confident and good with people since working with customers requires a professional and friendly approach. Printing and promotional products startup cost: $5K-$60K Units in operation: 600+ See details here: Franchise information Estrella Insurance Estrella Insurance is a property and casualty insurance agency. With more than 20 years of experience in providing affordable car and home insurance, they are a reliable choice for anyone looking to franchise with them. They offer their franchisees marketing & advertising services, onboarding and support, brand strength, and an established corporate model, ensuring that you have everything you need to succeed as an entrepreneur with Estrella Insurance. See details here: Franchise information Mint Condition Mint Condition has provided comprehensive cleaning, disinfecting, and janitorial services to their commercial customers since 1996. The commercial cleaning startup cost with them is one of the lowest on this list, and their team is powered by a network of hard-working regional offices and franchisees. The franchisors provide a comprehensive training program, flexible financing and ongoing support to help you succeed in business and ‘mint’ money. See details here: Franchise information Town Money Saver For another very low-cost franchise opportunity, we have Town Money Saver. TMS is a digital monthly community magazine that provides coupons and features for local businesses and advertisers. Their goal is to provide effective, cost-effective advertising for local companies that allows them to compete with bigger national chains. With no experience, employees, or inventory needed and with a minimal initial investment, owning a Town Money Saver franchise is an excellent opportunity to own a company in the publishing industry. See details here: Franchise information Superglass Windshield Repair SuperGlass Windshield Repair has been operating for 30 years and specializes in repairing any wayward glass scratch or crack on your auto windshield. It’s one of the more budget-friendly franchises on this list, with the high end of startup costs only being $31K. Also, overhead costs can be kept low due to its mobile option — a physical shop location is not required. It also offers classroom and on-the-job training. See details here: Franchise information ACFN Automated Teller Machines This is one of the hot ATM franchise ops that Small Biz Trends reported on back in September. ACFN provides automated teller machine services to hotels and other travel and entertainment-based businesses. The franchisors offer all you need to get your own ATM private network started, including site selection, lease negotiation, equipment, and signage. See details here: Franchise information Mattress by Appointment As far as low-cost franchises go, it’s hard to beat this one. You only need $20,000 to get started with Mattress by Appointment, which includes your opening inventory, advertising, and leasehold expenses. In addition, there is no training cost, franchise fee, or setup fee. You get lots of flexibility because Mattress by Appointment lets you work independently and make your own schedule. See details here: Franchise information Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning Oxi Fresh is a green carpet cleaning service and a world leader in environmental sustainability. They use the power of oxygen to leave the carpets of residential and business customers clean and dry in just one hour. With Oxi Fresh, you can work as much or as little as you want, and they offer comprehensive training, marketing support, ongoing education, and more to help franchisees succeed. With a booming industry and solid business plan, owning an Oxi Fresh franchise could be the perfect opportunity for you to start your own business. See details here: Franchise information The Most Profitable Franchises Under 50K This can be a bit of a challenge to answer, as it depends on several different factors, including your location, industry experience, and how well you manage your business. Some of the most lucrative franchises under 50K include Jazzercise, Town Money Saver, and Superglass Windshield Repair. Both are successful with low small business startup costs and no initial experience or inventory needed. Other popular franchise opportunities include ACFN Automated Teller Machines and Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning. Additionally, bear in mind that franchisors will often list revenue and profitability cases in their franchise packages. However, as a potential franchise owner, be sure to do your due diligence and ensure that the franchise you choose is sustainable and not just a flash in the pan. Ultimately, the most profitable franchise opportunity will be the one that best suits your needs and skillset. So, consider all of your options carefully before making a decision. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Franchises Under $50K" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

There’s no question that the face of America is changing. Those under 18 are the first majority minority generation: 53% are non-White; one in four are Hispanic, and one in five are the children of immigrants. But while evolving racial demographics are reshaping rising generations, we are no longer a young nation: by 2030, Americans older than 65 will outnumber those under 18, a major deviation from 2000 when 26% were under 18 and just 12% were over 65. Add to that a widening wealth gap: The gap between top one fifth incomes and bottom one fifth incomes has increased by 53% in the past decade. To better understand the impact of these changes on the mindset and needs of this evolving populace, BBG Ventures conducted a study with 2,000 Americans—large enough to be statistically relevant across race, gender, age, income, and geography. Our expectation, given the growing divide in the U.S. was that we would find major differences among racial groups, genders, and generations. But while it’s clear that Americans define their identities based on a unique perception of their place in the world, we actually have common priorities, needs, and concerns across nearly every age group, race, and gender. Health and Financial Security are the top two priorities for every race and gender, and nearly every age group. The exception is that those under 18 place Employment and Education as their top priority followed by Health. Health When we dig deeper into health and well-being, Mental Health is the number-one concern, driven by finances, stress, and loneliness. After Mental Health, nearly every segment noted Sleep as their second highest priority. While there are varying degrees of satisfaction with interactions between Americans and their doctors/care providers, there is close to unanimous agreement on the most desired improvement. Notably, the ability to see a doctor virtually came in last for nearly all segments. Rather, Americans want their doctors to provide personalized care, including culturally competent care; have better availability for appointments; and be more present and less distracted during visits. Financial Security As for Financial Security, the majority of Americans across nearly every segment lack confidence or feel neutral about their financial literacy (54%). Even more lack confidence or feel neutral about their financial position (65%). Paying bills consistently is the number-one financial goal for nearly all races and generations, followed by saving for an emergency fund. The high cost of living and inflation is the number-one factor preventing people from building wealth. This is despite the U.S.’s so-called “superstar status” when it comes to GDP growth, historic unemployment rate lows, increasing household wealth, and wage growth versus costs. Whatever the stats say, the pain of high costs is firmly planted in American minds. Opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors What do we take away from this? The emergence of America’s Polyculture, in and of itself, should not drive an “us and them” mentality, despite what social media might make you believe. The primary concerns and greatest needs of Americans across race, gender, and age are the same—and the presence of common needs suggests that the opportunity for transformative solutions is bigger than the sum of its parts. We can build highly scaled solutions; but how we go to market, and the user experience itself, will demand a new level of personalization that reflects our evolving polyculture. Here’s how entrepreneurs and investors can not only spread this message, but drive meaningful change: Prioritize mental health in product development Mental health is the top concern for most Americans, especially younger generations. We need a focus on developing tools that address mental health challenges, such as stress management, loneliness, and sleep improvement, along with availability. It’s important to acknowledge that platforms have entered the market to solve for this in the 2020–2021 boom, but there remains room for innovation in integrating mental wellness into broader ecosystems and creating more culturally competent and personalized care. What we now need are founders who bring nuance to the approach, particularly for the younger generation who live their lives online. Further, integrating mental wellness into broader product ecosystems, whether in healthcare or tech, is essential to meet this growing demand. Address financial insecurity with accessible solutions We found that 65% of Americans lack confidence in their financial position. Startups have a significant opportunity to build tools that empower financial literacy, provide budgeting assistance, and help with wealth-building strategies. Platforms that personalize financial advice or automate savings and debt management could close the confidence gap and improve financial outcomes, particularly for underserved communities. Again, tools exist today to help people manage their finances, but more can be done to address specific challenges faced by different communities, particularly the 54% lacking confidence or feeling neutral in their financial position. Innovate for workforce flexibility and career shifts We found that 84% of employees are considering a career change. While job numbers may wax and wane, 84% suggests a larger job dissatisfaction epidemic in this country. Platforms that support career transitions, entrepreneurship, and freelancing, or offer new pathways for upskilling, job flexibility, or alternative work arrangements will tap into the dissatisfaction with traditional employment and enable people to stay productive well past traditional retirement age. Many Americans still need better tools for career transitions, freelancing, and upskilling, particularly with college enrollment at the lowest levels we’ve seen in three decades. Simply building scalable solutions isn’t enough; while existing platforms have made strides in addressing the mental health, financial security, and workforce concerns that Americans share, there is still much work to be done. Entrepreneurs and investors must prioritize personalization and cultural competence as they develop the next generation of solutions. By doing so, they can help not only transform individual lives but innovate in a way that reflects the complexity of America’s polycultural future. Nisha Dua and Susan Lyne are cofounders and Managing Partners of BBG Ventures (BBGV), a seed and pre-seed venture fund backing high growth. For more information visit www.bbgventures.com, follow on bbgventures and connect on BBG Ventures. View the full article

Explore the significance of TAM, SAM, and SOM in assessing business ideas and creating effective marketing and SEO strategies. The post TAM, SAM, SOM: Understanding Their Role In Enterprise-Level SEO Strategy appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Interest in AI technology and, more specifically, OpenAI’s ChatGPT product has skyrocketed in recent years. People are looking for information about both topics. Source: Google Trends Millions are writing about ChatGPT across the web… …and talking about it in various communities. Interest shot up almost immediately. This is the first couple of weeks after ChatGPT launched to the public. Source: Exploding Topics And as you can tell from the graphs, all of this happened quickly. Whether your X and LinkedIn feeds have been persistently inundated with threads and posts about AI in general and tools like Claude, DeepSeek, and ChatGPT (like mine), or you’re just stumbling on the topic, you may want answers to two questions before investing your time and energy into learning ChatGPT: Is ChatGPT specifically likely to be an enduring product? What does it actually do and what can you personally use it for? In this article, I’ll help you answer these questions by telling you: What ChatGPT is. How it works. Who built it and is behind the technology. Why it’s important for SEOs specifically. Some of the current and likely future uses for it. What is ChatGPT? ChatGPT is an AI-powered chatbot created by OpenAI that can be accessed at https://chatgpt.com/. As of this writing, there are a few different product offerings: A free version of the tool, providing access to ChatGPT 4o mini (a specific model). A Plus plan for $20 per month, which includes extended limits, access to more advanced ChatGPT models (o1 and o1 mini), scheduled tasks, custom GPTs, and limited access to Sora for video creation. A Pro plan for $200 per month, offering unlimited access to all Plus features, advanced voice capabilities, higher limits for video and screen sharing, an advanced version of the o1 model, and access to Operator, a feature that can perform tasks in a dedicated browser. Out of the box, the free version’s interface is simple, with an empty dialog to enter a prompt. The tool can perform various tasks and return text, files, images, and videos in response. Some examples of tasks ChatGPT can execute include: Answering questions. Writing things like ads, emails, paragraphs, whole blog posts, or even college papers. Writing, commenting, or marking up code. Changing the formatting on a block of text for you. ChatGPT launched in late November 2022, on the heels of AI Content Generator Jasper.ai receiving $125 million in funding at a $1.5 billion valuation earlier the same month. The tool reached a million users in less than a week. But each session has a specific cost associated with it. In the interest of helping fund those costs (and further growth), Microsoft invested $10 billion in OpenAI at a $29 billion valuation. This move, combined with ChatGPT’s growth and word of mouth, might have fueled Google’s subsequent reported concerns about ChatGPT as a possible threat. Most recently, OpenAI raised another $6.6 billion at a valuation of $157 billion in October 2024. It’s been rumored that OpenAI is in talks to secure another $40 billion in funding at a $340 billion valuation (on the heels of new competitor DeepSeek, which is rumored to have spent only $5.5 million). Now that you understand what ChatGPT is, it’s equally important to learn how it works, who built it, and the goals and motivations behind its development. How does it work and how was it trained? That said, when using tools like ChatGPT, you will want to know where the information it generates comes from, how it determines what to return as an answer, and how that might change over time. That way, you can understand what level of trust to put in ChatGPT answers and output, how to craft your prompts better, and what tasks you may want to use it for (or not use it for). Before you start using ChatGPT for anything, I strongly recommend you check out OpenAI’s blog post about it and become aware of some of its failures and limitations. There, they have a nice graphic explaining how it works and a more in-depth explanation. AssemblyAI also has a detailed third-party breakdown of how ChatGPT works, some of its strengths and weaknesses, and several additional sources if you’re looking to dive deeper. One of the most important things to remember about how ChatGPT works is its limitations. In OpenAI’s own words: “ChatGPT sometimes writes plausible-sounding but incorrect or nonsensical answers. Fixing this issue is challenging, as: (1) during RL training, there’s currently no source of truth; (2) training the model to be more cautious causes it to decline questions that it can answer correctly; and (3) supervised training misleads the model because the ideal answer depends on what the model knows, rather than what the human demonstrator knows.” Another that’s important to highlight: “While we’ve made efforts to make the model refuse inappropriate requests, it will sometimes respond to harmful instructions or exhibit biased behavior. We’re using the Moderation API to warn or block certain types of unsafe content, but we expect it to have some false negatives and positives for now. We’re eager to collect user feedback to aid our ongoing work to improve this system.” ChatGPT was fine-tuned on a GPT model that completed training in June 2024, meaning it won’t have knowledge of events that occurred after that unless prompted to access the web. Who built ChatGPT? Similarly, understanding who built the application and why is an important background if you hope to use it in your day-to-day work. Again, ChatGPT is an OpenAI product. Here’s some background on the company and their stated goals: OpenAI has a non-profit parent organization (OpenAI Inc.) and a for-profit corporation called OpenAI LP (which has a “capped profit” model with a 100x profit cap, at which point the rest of the money flows up to the non-profit entity). The biggest investor is Microsoft. OpenAI employees also own equity. Former Y Combinator President Sam Altman is the CEO of OpenAI and was one of the original founders (along with prominent Silicon Valley personalities such as Elon Musk, Jessica Livingston, Reid Hoffman, Peter Thiel, and others). Many people ask about Musk’s involvement in the company and ChatGPT. He stepped down as a board member in 2018 and wouldn’t have had any meaningful participation in the development of ChatGPT (which obviously didn’t launch until November 2022). He is also not too fond of Altman and has launched a competitive product through his company X (Grok). Notable points to consider, whether you’re interested in ChatGPT as an SEO tool or as a potential alternative to Google, include: ChatGPT has launched its own search engine, ChatGPT Search. Microsoft’s ongoing involvement, with Microsoft Bing being the second-largest search engine, though still far behind Google. ChatGPT isn’t specifically designed as an SEO or content tool (though many SEO-focused tools now integrate AI into their products). Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. Why should SEOs care about ChatGPT? There are three core reasons for SEOs to be interested in how the ChatGPT product evolves: ChatGPT search could eventually be a viable alternative to traditional search (though it seems this is, at the very least, far off). AI optimization, or showing up prominently not just in ChatGPT search but in ChatGPT responses more broadly (and for responses from similar products like Claude, etc.), is a practice that SEOs are well-positioned to become experts at. ChatGPT can help with lots of SEO tasks! Dig deeper: How to gain visibility in generative AI answers: GEO for Perplexity and ChatGPT Here, I’ll focus on use cases to help perform SEO functions. What follows are ChatGPT’s use cases for SEO. AI content generation Generating SEO-focused content with AI is probably the most talked about element of AI and SEO. From creating blog posts and other content whole cloth to generating images and videos, generating meta descriptions, or editing and rewriting content, ChatGPT and OpenAI’s tools can help with a number of specific functions related to content creation generally and SEO-focused content creation specifically. An important concern here is how Google thinks about AI content in general. SEOs need to identify the specific instances where ChatGPT can make them more efficient or enhance their content. At the same time, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks to rankings and organic traffic when using ChatGPT-generated content in different ways (mainly if you’re relying on content created by writers you don’t have a relationship with). Dig deeper: Does Google’s helpful content update penalize AI content? Keyword research and organization Similarly, there are several specific tasks ChatGPT can execute related to keyword research and optimization, such as: Suggestions for keywords to target or blog topics. Keyword clustering or categorization. A key consideration for SEOs is how this relates to your current and optimal processes for these tasks. ChatGPT isn’t designed to be an “SEO tool,” so it won’t emphasize search volume, competition, relevance, and co-occurrence like more focused keyword research or organization tools. Code generation and technical SEO ChatGPT is helping people generate code and build things, and it’s no different for specific technical SEO tasks. Depending on the prompts, ChatGPT can help with schema markups, robots.txt directives, redirect codes, and building widgets and free tools to promote via link outreach. As with any type of content creation, you must QA the code that ChatGPT generates. If the code ChatGPT generates is incorrect, your site’s template, hosting environment, CMS, and more can break. Dig deeper: Can AI perform technical SEO analysis effectively? Link building ChatGPT can generate lists of outreach targets, emails, free tool ideas, and more that may assist with link building work. Here again (you may be sensing a theme), two things to keep in mind: Since ChatGPT was not built to be a link building tool, it may not prioritize opportunities or generate ideas that will specifically help with SEO success. GPT-3 is trained on old data, so the information you’re getting may be wrong or outdated if you don’t build your prompts very specifically to include specific information from the web. Dig deeper: How to create linkable assets with ChatGPT How to think about ChatGPT as an SEO Ultimately, given its early functionality and reception along with OpenAI’s founding team and investors (and level of investment), ChatGPT will likely have longevity as a tool. There are a ton of use cases for ChatGPT to help with your daily work, including: Lots of specific prompts across different functions in SEO. Rewriting title tags. Local SEO tasks. API integration with tools like Screaming Frog that you’re using every day. I would encourage SEOs to become familiar with ChatGPT (what it’s capable of and what its shortcomings are), get creative with how you can use it to speed up or improve your current processes, and to get used to carefully checking its output. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. If you want to read more books but don't have the time to actually sit down and stare at a page of text, audiobooks are a great alternative. You can listen to them on your commute, while you’re lounging around on vacation, or while you’re completing boring tasks around the house. Audiobooks used to be expensive and cumbersome, but digital subscription services has made them all too easy. A subscription to one of them is among the best ways to maximize your listening experience, as they'll give you access to a ton of books at once. Amazon-owned Audible is unquestionably the leader in this space, but they are far from your only choice. In 2025, there are many audiobook subscription services—paid and free—for your bibliophile needs. In this guide, I'll cover the best audiobook platforms, and note the pros and cons of each. Grab your headphones and get ready to hear a good book. Audible Credit: Audible Though you might have misgivings about Amazon, Audible’s parent company, there’s no question that this audiobook service is one of the very best around. It has plenty of titles—hundreds of thousands, in fact—that you can buy, rent, stream, and listen to offline using its official apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and Amazon devices (naturally). You can also play audiobooks through your Sonos speaker via your Audible or Sonos app. Your progress through an audiobook is stored wherever you listen to it: on the web, on an app, or in your car, for example. And that’s good; you don’t want a service that makes it hard to pick up where you left off. Audible offers a free trial which gives you 30 days of membership and a free book. After that, the Premium Plus plan costs $15/month for one credit (good for one audiobook), but you get to keep any books you’ve bought if you ever cancel. A Plus membership ($8/month after the free trial) gives you unlimited access to select titles in the Audible catalogue—called Audible Plus Listens—to listen to via streaming or download, but only as long as you remain a paying member. Audible Plus Listens is also included for Premium Plus subscribers along with the option to add more credits to your plan. You don’t have to be an Audible member to buy audiobooks, but if you are, you get a 30 percent discount on any purchases. Those books are available for you to listen to any time, even offline, and the service integrates with your Amazon account so your discount will also appear when you browse for books on Amazon. Depending on how much you read, Audible’s selection and credit system makes it a great value. (No, you won’t get a special bonus discount for buying the physical copy of a book and then buying the audiobook, but you do often save a little bit if you buy the Kindle version of a book first and add on the Audible track—go figure.) Audible pros: Huge catalog of audiobooks, podcasts, and original titles Books are yours to keep after subscription ends Audible cons: Depending on your perspective, it's part of Amazon Sign up for Audible Audiobooks.com Credit: Audiobooks.com If you just can’t bring yourself to use Audible, Audiobooks.com has more than 500,000 audiobooks to choose from. You can start with a 30-day free trial, which comes with three free books. After that, $15 a month gets you one book credit plus a bonus book from Audiobooks.com's VIP program (free for all members). The service also has curated listening lists—and if you have multiple book lovers in your home, there’s a family plan that allows you to share books, and each user can save their own bookmarks without interfering with others’ listening. The service has apps for iOS and Android, which have helpful features like offline listening and a sleep timer. Audiobooks.com pros 30-day free trial includes 3 books Family plan for multiple listeners Audiobooks.com cons Access to VIP content ends upon cancellation Sign up for Audiobooks.com B&N Audiobooks Credit: Barnes & Noble Barnes & Noble also has an Audible-like service at the same price point ($15 per month for 1 credit after a 30-day free trial) with access to more than 300,000 audiobooks. However, the service is not quite as flexible as similar alternatives, as there’s only one plan with no option to add credits, and credits expire 30 days after your subscription ends. Listen on the B&N Nook app on iOS or Android. The app also pulls in other content purchased from B&N and syncs across devices. B&N Audiobooks pros: Nook app combines audiobooks with ebooks and other digital content Discounts on audiobook purchases with subscription B&N Audiobooks cons: Limited subscription options compared to other services Sign up for B&N Audiobooks Libro.fm Credit: Libro.fm If you want to support your local independent bookstore instead of a huge corporation, Libro.fm gives you access to more than 500,000 titles for $15 a month, a percentage of which goes to the bookshop of your choice. Select one of more than 3,000 booksellers when you sign up, and get one credit (equal to one book) per month as well as 30% off individual audiobook purchases with your membership. Credits never expire, even if you pause or cancel your account. Libro.fm has apps for iOS and Android with features like a sleep timer and automatic syncing of bookmarks and listening progress across devices. Libro.fm pros Subscription supports independent bookstores Curated bookseller playlists and recommendations Libro.fm cons No free trial (offers free book with membership signup instead) Sign up for Libro.fm Everand Credit: Everand Everand is the audiobook service from Scribd, which still houses community-uploaded documents of all kinds, from court filings to research papers. The platform has audiobooks, ebooks, podcasts, magazines, and articles for you to peruse and stream, which makes the service’s low monthly fee—$12 for one credit with an initial 30-day free trial that also includes Scribd access—a relative bargain. The $17-per-month Plus plan comes with three credits. Everand’s apps for iOS, Android, and Amazon devices make it easy to find, stream, and download audiobooks for offline listening. And the sleep timer automatically turns off your audiobook after a set time (so you don’t stay up past your bedtime reading, er, listening to all the things). Although Everand’s audiobook offerings aren’t quite as comprehensive as Audible’s, you get a wider selection of services for your lower monthly fee—ideal for those who also like reading their favorite monthly magazines after listening to a book or two on their commutes. Everand pros: Multiple content types included in monthly fee Helpful features like offline reading and sleep timer Everand cons: Monthly reading limits Sign up for Everand Spotify Credit: Spotify Spotify has audiobooks available for purchase on its platform, and Premium subscribers also get 15 hours of free listening time per month with access to more than 250,000 titles. Once you hit that limit, you’re cut off unless you purchase the book or a 10-hour top-up (note that hours don’t roll over month to month). A Spotify Premium subscription costs $12 per month after a 2-month free trial ($17 per month and $20 per month for Duo and Family plans, respectively). On Duo and Family plans, only the primary subscriber can access the audiobook benefit. If you’re already a Premium user, this is a nice extra feature, but it’s likely not worth subscribing if you simply want to listen to books. Spotify also has an Audiobooks Access plan for non-subscribers, which gives you 15 hours of listening for $10 per month. Spotify pros: Listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks all in one app Spotify cons: Limits on listening time rather than per book Not available to Duo and Family plan members Sign up for Spotify Premium Libby Credit: Libby More than 90% of libraries in North America support OverDrive, a service that makes it easy to check out audiobooks and ebooks—for free—right from your smartphone or tablet. All you need is your library card and a library in your community that supports the service. (Odds are great you’ll find at least one.) Libby is Overdrive’s library reading app available for iOS, Android, and Amazon as well as on the web. The service is completely free as long as you have a library card for whichever library (or libraries) you want to use. Yes, your selection may vary by library, but Overdrive’s website does a great job of showing you other locations where you’ll be able to find a book you might want to read (or listen to). You can read ebooks and listen to audiobooks offline, and you can pick up where you left off no matter how you’re listening to your content. Your position, bookmarks, and notes are all synchronized between your devices. Both the number of books you can check out at once and the borrowing term are set by your local library—and you may have to wait a while for popular titles. Libby pros: Free to use Offline access and device syncing Libby cons: Selection varies by local library catalog Waitlists for popular titles Hoopla Credit: Hoopla Much like OverDrive, Hoopla allows you to check out various types of media from different libraries; the content list includes audiobooks, ebooks, and music, as well as TV shows and movies. You authenticate your library membership by providing the number on the back of your card (digital or physical), which gives you access to your library’s digital offerings. You can view your content on Hoopla’s website or via its app for iOS, Android, and Amazon devices. Like Overdrive, you are allowed to check a certain amount of content at once in various categories of media, but it’s easy to check stuff back in once you’re done listening to/reading/viewing it (or once your “borrowing” period expires, just like a real library!). Hoopla is completely free, which is a great selling point, and its online reader for ebooks has all the settings you probably care about: font sizes, background colors, text margins, line height, etc. Its content is limited to what your library offers, which will give you all the incentive to hop in the car and make a membership run to a few of your local libraries the next time you have a free weekend. Hoopla pros: Free to use Multiple media categories, including audiobooks and ebooks Hoopla cons: Selection is limited by your library’s catalog Must return at end of borrowing term Chirp Credit: Chirp Chirp is an audiobook store that gives you access to thousands of books at a discount. Instead of a subscription with credits, you get limited-time deals (under $5) on the purchase of select titles, with personalized recommendations as well as the option to buy and download popular titles at full price. There's no commitment or monthly fee, which means books are yours to keep once you purchase them. This is a solid option if you find discounted titles you like or don't want to be locked into a monthly subscription. Chirp has apps for iOS and Android with features like a sleep timer, bookmarking, and offline listening. Chirp pros: No commitment Significant discounts on select books Chirp cons: Popular titles cost more to purchase than monthly credits on other services Sign up for Chirp This story was previously published and has been updated to include current pricing and additional services. View the full article

It’s been a rough week for the tech industry. First, Salesforce announced it would lay off more than 1,000 employees, and now another enterprise software maker has announced even deeper job cuts. Yesterday, Workday, Inc. (Nasdaq: WDAY), maker of cloud-based human resources software, announced that it would lay off 1,750 employees—or roughly 8.5% of its global workforce. These layoffs add to a rough start for the tech industry in 2025, which has seen major tech giants, including Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon, trim their workforces. Here’s what you need to know about Workday’s layoffs. Roughly 8% of Workday’s employees are impacted Workday yesterday announced that it was eliminating 1,750 roles at the company. That equates to about 8.5% of its total workforce, which stood at about 18,000 employees as of January 2024, as Reuters notes. Workday was founded in 2005 and is based in Pleasanton, California. The company makes enterprise software for HR management. Workday announced the layoffs in a memo from CEO Carl Eschenbach. In the memo, Eschenbach said the company would realign its resources in fiscal 2025 in light of the increasing demand for artificial intelligence and its “potential to drive a new era of growth for Workday.” This realignment means that Workday will invest “strategically, helping teams work better together, bringing innovations to market faster, and making it easier for our customers and partners to work with us,” Eschenbach said. But in order to achieve this realignment, he continued, job cuts would be necessary. Announcing the layoffs yesterday, Eschenbach “encouraged” employees to work from home or, for those already in the office, to head home. He said Workday’s goal was to inform as many impacted employees as possible on that day. Workday’s restructuring plan The layoffs are part of a larger restructuring plan for the company, which includes prioritizing investments in strategic areas, including AI and the development of its platform. However, while the plan includes cutting around 8.5% of its workforce, the company “expects to continue to hire in key strategic areas and locations throughout its fiscal year ending January 31, 2026,” according to a FORM 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). That filing also revealed that Workday expects to “exit certain owned office space” as part of the restructuring. Workday says it expects its restructuring plan to cost the company between $230 million to $270 million, with roughly $145 million to $175 million related to severance payments, employee benefits, and other related costs. As for the employees getting laid off, Eschenbach said those in the U.S. will be offered a minimum of 12 weeks of severance pay with additional weeks of pay based on tenure. WDAY stock rises on news of layoffs While layoffs are devastating for the individuals affected, investors generally see things differently. The company’s stock price jumped after Workday announced its layoffs yesterday. WDAY shares closed trading yesterday over 6.3% higher than they opened. With yesterday’s post-layoffs stock price jump, WDAY stock is now up just over 7% year-to-date. However, looking back a full 12 months, WDAY shares are negative for the period, having declined 5.3% over the past year. As of the time of this writing, in premarket trading, WDAY shares are currently up 0.3% to around $277 per share. According to tech layoff tracker Layoffs.fyi, 42 tech companies have now laid off over 10,800 workers since the beginning of 2025. View the full article

Another update in the revised Google Quality Raters Guidelines that was updated on January 23rd was that they added a section for recipe sites and said that requiring "significant scrolling" or making it hard to find the jump to recipe button is not a good thing.View the full article

Keir Starmer’s style is too decorous to be seen as insurgent but that’s what the political moment calls forView the full article

Google has announced it made some updates to its ad quality where it now takes into account better measurements for understanding the user navigation experience and if that user will or will not be happy with the ad landing page.View the full article

Gary Illyes from Google reportedly said at event the other day that it is important for us to focus on originality in the coming year. "Originality is something we're going to be focusing on this year. That's going to be important," is how he was quoted.View the full article

Human skills fall into three major buckets: physical, intellectual, and emotional. Of these, the last two are critical differentiators of talent across all knowledge economy jobs. When it comes to intellectual skills, such as learning ability, a century of scientific evidence reveals that this trait is the most consistent predictor of job performance and career success across all occupations. Why? Because it predicts how fast and well you can learn, reason, and solve problems, which basically matters in every job. That said, intellectual skills are clearly not enough to do well in your job or career. In fact, most jobs will also require you to understand, influence, and manage yourself and other people, and these intrapersonal and interpersonal skills are typically encapsulated under the label of emotional intelligence (EQ). How can you assess the EQ of artificial intelligence? Just like with humans, AI’s potential can also be assessed in terms of its intellectual and emotional skills or capabilities. Intellectual skills include the ability to solve problems, retrieve knowledge, and translate expertise into the creation or generation of new content (e.g., poems, jokes, code, music, images, and a new corporate strategy). When people assess how intelligent AI is, they generally focus on these types of problems and pitch AI against human expertise or intelligence. Emotional skills, though far less discussed, are perhaps even more impressive. While it seems counterintuitive to think of AI as capable of displaying EQ, a simple examination of any generative AI tool (e.g., ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude) will show that AI is already better than many humans at both managing itself and others, which includes the ability to understand humans, and help us boost our own EQ. 4 ways AI’s emotional intelligence can help human managers This is how AI could help managers to improve their ability to manage themselves and others, thereby improving their managerial and leadership effectiveness, and helping their teams to be happier and more productive: 1. Real-Time Sentiment Analysis in Communication AI tools can analyze the tone, sentiment, and emotional content of emails, chat messages, and meeting transcripts. Managers can receive insights on whether their communication comes across as empathetic, assertive, or dismissive. Since the choice of words has a big impact on others’ evaluations and inferences of our emotional states and intentions, AI can decode and predict how our communicational patterns influence others and help us fine-tune our message, especially when we are managing people. For example, AI can flag overly harsh phrasing or suggest more empathetic alternatives, helping managers improve their interactions, which effectively makes them seem more emotionally intelligent with others. 2. Employee Mood and Engagement Monitoring AI can analyze a manager’s behavior, such as feedback given during meetings or decision-making patterns, and provide tailored coaching tips. Soon, such tools will be embedded in most videoconferencing platforms, providing managers real feedback about their teams’ emotional and psychological states, helping them to run more engaging meetings. Algorithmic readings of employees’ reactions to managers’ comments may provide managers with real-time markers of their employees’ energy, engagement, interest, curiosity, or indeed boredom levels. AI might suggest practicing active listening techniques if the manager frequently interrupts or advise on better conflict resolution strategies based on observed patterns. 3. Role-Playing and Virtual EQ Training AI-powered virtual reality (VR) simulations or chatbots can help managers practice challenging conversations, such as delivering critical feedback or resolving team conflicts, something most managers struggle with. Even using simple large language platforms can help managers treat AI as their personal digital coach and sounding board, asking uncomfortable personal questions about how best to handle emotionally charged or socially challenging situations. These tools create safe environments for managers to build empathy and develop skills like de-escalating tension, reading nonverbal cues, and handling emotional reactions. 4. Diversity and Inclusion Insights AI can detect unconscious biases in decision-making, hiring, or team dynamics by analyzing historical patterns or behaviors. For example, managers may inadvertently use derogatory language when speaking to outgroup or lower status candidates, or respond faster to employees who belong to their same group or tribe. By identifying areas where a manager may unintentionally favor certain employees or overlook others, AI can guide them to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace, reducing bias, increasing fairness, and strengthening their empathy and interpersonal skills. These examples show how AI can be a valuable tool for managers looking to build stronger connections, communicate more effectively, and lead with empathy. To be sure, many managers may feel they don’t need AI—or any human coach—to improve their emotional and social competence, which may itself signal deficits around EQ, a trait that is critical for self-awareness; and, the certainty that AI will never be able to replace you because your skills are never going to be rivaled by AI is mostly indicative of arrogance, delusional grandiosity, and overconfidence, all of which are common in lower EQ individuals. Likewise, it is feasible to think that those who already display higher levels of EQ will leverage emotional AI to refine and upgrade their social and emotional skills even further—a decision that would signal higher levels of IQ or intelligence, too. View the full article