ResidentialBusiness

For many of us, December rushes by in a blur of holiday merrymaking and gift-giving, end-of-year invoicing and accounting, and hasty planning for the year ahead. In the rush, the thoughtful year-end reflection we might have hoped for often doesn’t happen. That’s a missed opportunity. Reflection doesn’t have to be complicated, though. Here’s a simple end-of-year exercise to help you process the year, stay aligned with your goals, and move forward with intention. Year in Review First, remind yourself what actually happened this year. It’s easy to fall prey to recency bias, focusing on the last few weeks and forgetting earlier events. We also tend to fixate on where we fell short—goals unrealized, tasks unfinished, issues unresolved. These linger in our minds precisely because they remain incomplete. What we often overlook, though, is what we’ve already achieved. To get a more accurate picture, use your phone’s camera roll, online calendar, journals, work self-evaluations, and social media accounts to reacquaint yourself with the full year. Keep this light and stress-free. I often rediscover dinner parties and weekend trips I’d forgotten, or reflect on time with family or work projects that felt all-consuming earlier in the year. There’s no rigid process here, just a deliberate stroll through the past year, noting what stands out. If it’s helpful, make a few notes along the way. Three Questions Next, ask yourself three questions, each of which calls for three answers. The rule of three keeps the exercise simple, efficient, and easy to revisit year after year. 1. What are the three best things I did for myself this year? This question helps you examine how you prioritized your own well-being. How quickly or slowly you arrive at your answers can be revealing in itself. Asking this question first also sends an important signal that self-care is the foundation for everything that you do. Self-care can take many forms. It might mean working out, learning to play the ukelele, or cutting back on drinking. Or it could mean landing a new client, setting a boundary with a difficult colleague, or taking a step toward a new certification. Some answers may feel significant; others may not. One of mine this year was, “I went away for a summer weekend with friends.” Looking back, that trip stood out as a fun highlight, and I realized how much it recharged me after a busy spring. You get to define what counts here. Where are you trying to grow? What made your life easier or better? 2. What were my three top wins this year? A win is something you’re proud of, an accomplishment that resulted from your efforts. It can be personal or professional, but it should reflect your contribution. Rather than “my team won an award,” for example, try: “I contributed X, Y, and Z, which led to my team winning an award.” Recognizing accomplishments gives us the confidence to navigate hard moments and clarifies what matters to us. Once you’ve identified a win, delve deeper to think through what actions produced the outcome. Perhaps a key relationship is stronger this year. What did you do differently? What behaviors, choices, or boundaries made the difference? Look for your specific actions. Again, you define what counts. Your top three wins might not be what the outside world would call your top three wins, but you know why they were important and meaningful, and how hard you worked for them. 3. What are the three most important lessons I learned this year? As you reflect on the year and the first two questions, difficult moments may surface as well. Spend some time with them and ask: What’s the lesson here? Try to distill each lesson into a single sentence. Two of mine from this year were, “It’s worth paying extra to make travel easier,” and “Do the hard thing quickly.” Yours might involve boundary setting, listening to your instincts, or not settling for less than you need. This year taught you valuable lessons. Don’t leave them behind. Once you’ve identified your three lessons, write them down somewhere you can easily revisit them. Let your own wisdom guide you as you make decisions or face challenges in the year ahead. As the year winds down, it’s tempting to rush straight into goal-setting and strategy for what’s next, but clarity about the future is hard to achieve without first making sense of what just happened. A simple, low-pressure reflection can create a bridge between what we’ve experienced and our intentions. It helps us carry forward what worked, release what didn’t, and enter the new year with clearer self-knowledge and more grounded decision-making. View the full article

Crisis has laid bare the increasingly fraught relations between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi View the full article

Tireless dynamism has been fetishised by the likes of Donald The President and Sanae TakaichiView the full article

In spite of efforts to bring it into the mainstream, the cryptocurrency remains one step removed from moneyView the full article

Sponsorships and collaborations soar even as industry slowdown spurs renewed focus on wealthiest customersView the full article

Companies including Marriott and Hilton pushing to improve perks and get more direct bookingsView the full article

Rome and Madrid rewarded by investors for cutting deficits, while France and Germany look to borrow moreView the full article

In recent weeks, a project called Jmail.world has quickly recreated the online life of Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and convicted sex offender with myriad ties to the rich and powerful. The effort started with a reproduction of the tranche of released emails in common Gmail style, searchable just like your own email app. Earlier this week, the team behind Jmail, software engineer Riley Walz and CEO of Kino Luke Igal, revealed JPhotos, which is inspired by Google Photos and is full of images that have been made public. The Jmail.world archive now includes sections imitating Google Drive, as well as “JFlights,” a section tracking Epstein’s flight history, “Jemini,” an Epstein-inspired chatbot, and even “Jotify.” Together, they create an immersive facsimile of Epstein’s digital world. To engage Jmail.world, we must suspend our disbelief, at least in part. The emails, and other documents, include the redactions of government lawyers. Jeffrey Epstein did not have a virtual reality platform for exploring his old haunts (obviously). These pictures were not uploaded to a database in this format and no one actually tracks their flights like this. Still, the endeavor feels not unlike the systems sometimes used by law enforcement to poke through the worlds of their subjects. They suck up records, and then recreate them on their own systems to mine through. In this case, the Jmail tool is available to everyone to examine. You, too, can sort through the digital refuse for evidence of one of the most odious scandals in U.S. history. It is indeed horrifying, in a pick-your-poison sort of way. “[A]t some point this stuff will come out — as long [The President] continues to top polls,” wrote a New York Times reporter to Epstein in one exchange, back in 2015. Epstein responded: “would you like photso [sic] of donald and girls in bikinis in my kitchen.” There are the ever-flowing emails from his associates, including Ghislaine Maxwell and Steve Bannon. The back-and-forths over strategizing with reporters on the myriad allegations facing Epstein and his associates. There are the redacted images of his sometimes-naked victims. There are his critics, who email him: You are dead. And then, his morally disturbed fans. One anonymous emailer wrote to Epstein: “I can’t believe they arrested you again, you are the only man on the planet who would never be bad with any women as you love them too much.” What’s surprisingly striking is how much of the stuff on first glance doesn’t appear like much of anything, really. There is the endless supply of updates from Quora and the boomerist conversations on political-goings. There are lots of re-forwarded news stories, articles flagged by Flipboard, updates on the markets, and, sometimes, very strange Epstein wrote to himself. In the photos, there are pictures of Epstein doing relatively normal things, like playing the piano and riding a horse. In his online orders, there’s a device for mitigating back pain, Fruit of the Loom men’s boxers, and CPAP machine replacement tubing. In a virtual recreation of his house, there’s a reading nook, a laundry room, and storage areas. It can seem fairly benign, dull even. One has to look through the email back-and-forths to find direct references to the worst of it, but it’s there, if you know what to look for. His Amazon orders show he orders reveal he bought Bitcoin for Dummies, but also several books about Vladimir Nabokov, the author of Lolita. In the same database of pictures that include snapshots of a concert and pictures of a horse, and pictures of Epstein playing pingpong and petting a dog, are the pictures of horrifying crimes, including plenty of (redacted) images of victims. When he communicates with the other affluent accomplices, it’s often about nothing, in particular – until it isn’t. Social media and the news industry have carefully mined through these emails, looking for the most concerning to highlight. But Jmail asks us to work by ourselves, in a notably more disturbing exercise, and sift through the everyday doings and digital vestiges of a very evil man. View the full article

This comment section is open for any non-work-related discussion you’d like to have with other readers, by popular demand. Here are the rules for the weekend posts. The post weekend open thread – December 27-28, 2025 appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Move would improve living standards, says TUC head Paul NowakView the full article

Learn the top eight causes of project failure and discover techniques to prevent delays, scope issues, and wasted resources. The post Top 8 Causes of Project Failure & What You Can Do About Them appeared first on project-management.com. View the full article

Home prices rose 0.2% nationally month-over-month in November, but there were an estimated 37.2% more sellers than buyers in the market, Redfin said. View the full article

After the crystal ball drops on New Year’s Eve in New York City, it will rise again, sparkling in red, white, and blue to usher in 2026 and kick off months of celebrations for the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday. The patriotic touches at this year’s Times Square gathering, including a second confetti drop, will offer an early glimpse of what’s ahead: hundreds of events and programs, big and small, planned nationwide to mark the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. “I’m telling you right now, whatever you’re imagining, it’s going to be much more than that,” said America250 Chair Rosie Rios, who oversees the bipartisan commission created by Congress in 2016 to organize the semiquincentennial anniversary. “It’s going to be one for the ages, the most inspirational celebration this country and maybe the world has ever seen.” Rios and her group worked with the Times Square Alliance business district and One Times Square, the building from where the ball is dropped, to make the changes to this year’s ceremonies. They’re also planning a second ball drop event on July 3, the eve of the nation’s birthday, “in the same beautiful style that Times Square knows how to do it,” Rios said. It will mark the first time in 120 years there will be a ball drop in Times Square that doesn’t occur on New Year’s Eve, she said. A New Year’s Eve ball was first dropped in Times Square in 1907. Built by a young immigrant metalworker named Jacob Starr, the 700-pound (318-kilogram), 5-foot- (1.5-meter-) diameter ball was made of iron and wood and featured 100 25-watt light bulbs. Last year, the Constellation Ball, the ninth and largest version, was unveiled. It measured about 12 feet (3.7 meters) in diameter and weighs nearly 12,000 pounds (5,400 kilograms). The only years when no ball drop occurred were 1942 and 1943, when the city instituted a nightly “dimout” during World War II to protect itself from attacks. Crowds instead celebrated the new year with a moment of silence followed by chimes rung from the base of One Times Square. This year, the stroke of midnight will also mark the official launch of America Gives, a national service initiative created by America250. Organizers hope to make 2026 the largest year of volunteer hours ever aggregated in the country. On the following day, America250 will participate in the New Years Day Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, with a float themed “Soaring Onward Together for 250 Years.” It will feature three larger-than-life bald eagles representing the country’s past, present and future. “We want to ring in this new year from sea to shining sea. What better way to think about it than going from New York to California,” Rios said. “This has to be community-driven, this has be grassroots. We’re going from Guam to Alaska, from Fairbanks to Philadelphia, and everything in between.” President Donald The President has also announced the “Freedom 250” initiative to coordinate additional events for the 250th anniversary. Rios said she sees the wide range of celebrations and programs planned for the coming months, from large fireworks displays and statewide potluck suppers to student contests and citizen oral histories, as an opportunity to unite a politically divided nation. “If we can find something for everyone … having those menus of options that people can pick and choose how they want to participate,” she said. “That’s how we’re going to get to engaging 350 million Americans.” —Susan Haigh, Associated Press View the full article

As cases of a new, highly contagious “super flu’” surge across the nation this holiday season, more and more Americans are looking for ways to treat the symptoms, which include everything from fever and chills, to headaches and vomiting. A variant of influenza A H3N2, called subclade K, which is being blamed for an early and severe flu season in the United Kingdom, has hit residents in New York, Rhode Island, Colorado and Louisiana the hardest, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While flu vaccines usually have an efficacy rate of 40% to 60% an early report from the U.K. estimates this “super flu” strain has an efficacy rate of 32% to 39% in adults, and 72% to 75% in children, Northeastern University associate clinical professor, Brandon Dionne said. Four antiviral drugs recommended by the CDC to treat the flu There are four FDA-approved antiviral drugs recommended by CDC to treat flu this season: Tamiflu (oseltamivir); Xofluza (baloxavir); Relenza (zanamivir); and Rapivab (peramivir). Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is most commonly prescribed in the U.S. Xofluza (baloxavir) is a pill, given as a single dose by mouth, and is approved for early treatment of uncomplicated flu in people 5 years and older. (It is not recommended for treatment of flu during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, in those with progressive illness, or in hospitalized patients.) Relenza (zanamivir) is a powdered medication that is inhaled and approved for early treatment of flu in people 7 years and older. It is not recommended for people with breathing problems like asthma or COPD. (Oseltamivir and zanamivir are given twice a day for five days.) Rapivab (peramivir) is given once intravenously by a health care provider, and is approved for early treatment of flu in people 6 months and older. CDC recommendations Antiviral drugs work best when started within 1 to 2 days after flu symptoms begin; and the CDC recommends prompt treatment for people who have flu (or suspected flu) and are at increased risk of serious complications such as: pregnant women, people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease. View the full article

Graphite mines in the United States largely closed down seven decades ago. Mining the ubiquitous mineral found in everything from nuclear reactors to pencils seemed to make little sense when it could be imported inexpensively from other nations, especially China. That view is changing now. Demand for graphite, a key material in the lithium-ion batteries that power everything from phones to electric cars, is surging as trade tensions with China persist. With federal officials concerned about the steady supply of a number of critical minerals, several companies have plans to mine graphite. In New York, Titan Mining Corp. has mined a limited amount of ore from a deposit in snowy woods about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the Canadian border, aiming for commercial sales by 2028. Company officials believe the geopolitical winds are at their backs to sell graphite concentrate for high-tech, industrial, and military uses. That could include heat-resistant coatings in factories, anodes in large lithium-ion batteries connected to electrical grids, and lubricants for military vehicles, according to the company. “We believe there is a real opportunity here,” said company CEO Rita Adiani. “We have the ability to supply a significant portion of U.S. needs. And that’s largely because you can’t see China now as a reliable supply-chain partner.” Trade tensions with China rose this year as President Donald The President‘s administration imposed higher tariffs, though those tensions eased somewhat after The President and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in October during a regional economic summit in South Korea. The northern New York deposit is in a rural region with a rich history of graphite, iron ore, and garnet mining. The iconic yellow Ticonderoga pencil was named for a town several hours east of this deposit, where graphite was mined long ago. Titan’s Joel Rheault recently held up a rock from the newly mined area. It was an ordinary-looking flecked fragment of schist, glinting slightly in the sun. But it was comprised of roughly 3% graphite. “You can see how gray the rock is here,” said Rheault, the company’s vice president of operations. “That’s because of that graphite.” A critical mineral Graphite can conduct electricity and withstand high temperatures, making it useful for a host of commercial and military applications. As such, the Department of Energy has said the need for graphite is critical, and the Department of the Interior lists it as one of 60 “critical minerals,” along with more than a dozen rare earth elements. Forecasters also expect global graphite demand to continue soaring in the next decade, alongside the battery boom. That includes both mined, or “natural,” graphite and manufactured, or “synthetic,” graphite, which tends to be purer but pricier. Lithium-ion batteries’ anodes can use a mix of both. China dominance in supplying both of natural and synthetic graphite has worried U.S. policymakers for years. Concerns spiked recently when China placed new export controls on graphite and several other minerals, only to relax them for a year. Federal officials trying to shore up supply chains for critical minerals like graphite included a tax credit for critical mineral production in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. More recently, the The President administration struck critical mineral deals with other countries to diversify supplies. It also has emphasized critical minerals through government funding and streamlined reviews. “What’s happening now needs to happen,” said Gregory Keoleian, co-director of the Center for Sustainable Systems at the University of Michigan. “I think you just don’t want to be completely reliant on other countries when you have resources that you could develop.” Multiple active projects Most U.S. graphite mines were closed by the 1950s. Right now, no U.S. graphite mines regularly produce a commercial product, according to the U.S. Geological Survey National Minerals Information Center. But the center says the Titan mine is one of five active projects, including two in Alabama and one each in Montana and Alaska. Westwater Resources this fall announced it retained an engineering firm to lead the permitting process for mine development at the Coosa Deposit in Alabama. The Graphite One Inc. project in Alaska is at the site of what state officials say is the largest known large-flake graphite deposit in the United States. “When we are sitting with one of the largest graphite deposits in the entire world … there’s no reason why we need to rely on China for our graphite,” said Anthony Huston, president and CEO of Graphite One. Titan has an advantage because its New York graphite deposit was discovered several years ago at the site of its existing zinc mine. The company was able to start limited graphite mining under its current permits while seeking additional permits for full-scale mining. The federal government this fall approved the New York mine for fast-tracked permitting, saying it would “build a strategically significant domestic supply chain for graphite.” The U.S. Export-Import Bank also said it would consider lending up to $120 million for construction and pledged $5.5 million for a feasibility study. Titan expects to eventually produce about 40,000 metric tonnes (44,092 tons) of graphite concentrate a year, which the company says is roughly half the current U.S. demand for natural graphite. “We have indications, effectively, that 100% of the output from this facility could be sold,” Adiani said. —Michael Hill, Associated Press View the full article

When conducting research, effective survey questions are essential for gathering meaningful insights. You need to contemplate various types, such as open-ended, rating scales, and multiple-choice formats. Each question type serves a different purpose, helping you uncover both quantitative and qualitative data. Comprehending how to frame these questions can greatly impact your results. As you explore the ten examples provided, you’ll discover how to improve your survey design for better outcomes. Key Takeaways Combine multiple-choice and open-ended questions to capture both quantitative data and detailed qualitative insights. Use rating scale questions to gauge satisfaction on a defined scale, offering nuanced feedback. Ensure questions are clear and unbiased to avoid confusion and misleading data. Start with general questions to engage respondents, positioning sensitive topics in the middle for better response rates. Limit answer choices to four or five in multiple-choice questions to prevent overwhelming respondents. Understanding the Importance of Effective Survey Questions When you design a survey, the effectiveness of your questions plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality of the data you collect. Clear, unbiased questions are crucial; they guarantee that participants can express their opinions accurately. If your survey question examples are vague or leading, you risk collecting misleading data that undermines your research. Utilizing different kinds of survey questions, including ordinal survey questions, allows for a richer dataset. For instance, combining open-ended questions with closed-ended formats improves both qualitative and quantitative analysis. The order and framing of your questions as well matter; they can greatly influence how respondents answer, so design them thoughtfully to minimize bias. Regularly testing and refining your questions based on feedback guarantees they remain effective and relevant. Types of Survey Questions to Consider When designing your survey, consider the different types of questions you can use to gather valuable insights. Each format, whether it’s multiple-choice for quantifiable data or open-ended for qualitative feedback, serves a unique purpose in comprehending your audience. Striking a balance between these formats can improve your data collection, providing both breadth and depth in your findings. Question Format Diversity Diverse question formats play a crucial role in designing effective surveys, as each type serves specific purposes and can yield different insights. A survey should contain questions that are varied to improve data quality. For instance, survey multiple choice answer examples help quantify preferences easily, whereas rating scale questions gauge satisfaction levels on a 5 or 7-point scale. Open-ended questions invite detailed responses, uncovering unexpected insights. Dichotomous questions offer straightforward yes/no answers, perfect for binary decisions, whereas matrix questions allow for efficient evaluation of related items with the same response scale. Qualitative Vs Quantitative Insights Incorporating a range of question formats not just improves your survey’s structure but likewise sets the stage for gathering qualitative and quantitative insights. Qualitative insights come from open-ended questions like, “What features do you wish our product had?” These questions let respondents share detailed feedback, revealing user motivations and experiences. Conversely, quantitative insights are obtained through closed-ended questions, such as multiple-choice or Likert scale formats, allowing you to measure attitudes easily. Combining both types boosts comprehension of user sentiment. Furthermore, nominal questions offer demographic insights, whereas rating scale questions can convert qualitative feedback into quantifiable data, helping you track trends over time, such as changes in customer satisfaction levels. The Role of Question Framing in Survey Design The way you frame your survey questions can greatly impact the responses you receive. Positive framing tends to elicit more favorable feedback, whereas negative framing may reveal areas needing improvement but can likewise bias responses. Using neutral framing helps mitigate this bias, allowing respondents to express their true opinions without being led toward a specific viewpoint. Positive vs. Negative Framing When designing surveys, the way you frame your questions can greatly influence the responses you receive. Positive framing typically encourages respondents to provide favorable feedback, resulting in higher satisfaction ratings. Conversely, negative framing focuses on areas needing improvement, which may generate critical insights but can additionally discourage complete responses. Comprehending the impact of these two styles is essential for effective survey design. Framing Type Impact on Responses Example Question Positive Framing Higher satisfaction ratings “How satisfied are you with our service?” Negative Framing More critical feedback “What issues did you face with our service?” Neutral Framing Balanced and honest feedback “How would you rate our service overall?” Choosing the right framing can greatly affect your data quality and interpretation. Neutral Framing Benefits Neutral framing in survey questions serves as a crucial tool for gathering unbiased and reliable feedback. By avoiding leading or loaded language, you encourage respondents to share their honest and balanced opinions. Research shows that neutral questions yield more accurate data, as they don’t assume a positive or negative experience. This approach allows for a thorough comprehension of customer opinions. Furthermore, neutral framing improves response validity by reducing social desirability bias, where respondents might alter their answers to fit perceived expectations. Using consistent wording helps maintain comparability in trends over time. In the end, effective neutral framing promotes trust in the survey process, making respondents feel that their genuine opinions are valued and considered in decision-making. Key Considerations for Question Order Crafting the right order for survey questions is crucial, as it can greatly impact the quality and reliability of the responses you receive. The sequence of your questions can shape how respondents interpret later items, so start with general inquiries to engage them effectively. Sensitive questions should come later to minimize discomfort and the chance of abandonment, allowing respondents to feel more at ease. Furthermore, placing demographic questions at the end helps maintain engagement and reduces fatigue, which could distort responses. This logical flow from broad to specific not only improves the respondent experience but also aids in tracking trends over time. Consistent question ordering allows for better comparability in longitudinal studies, ensuring that your research yields reliable insights. By considering question order carefully, you set a solid foundation for gathering meaningful data that truly reflects your audience’s views. Tips for Optimizing Survey Completion Rates To optimize survey completion rates, you should keep your surveys concise and prioritize question order effectively. Aim for fewer than ten questions to maintain engagement, as longer surveys can lead to drop-offs. Keep Surveys Concise Keeping surveys concise is vital for maximizing completion rates, especially as research shows that respondents tend to lose interest when faced with lengthy questionnaires. To improve your survey’s effectiveness, consider these tips: Limit to 10 Questions: Keeping your survey under 10 questions helps prevent fatigue and maintains engagement. Focus on Key Information: Aim for concise questions that can be answered quickly, especially since mobile users have shorter attention spans. Mix Question Types: Using a variety of question formats can make the survey more engaging, helping you retain respondents’ attention. Prioritize Question Order When structuring a survey, the order in which you present questions can greatly impact completion rates and the quality of the data collected. Start with general questions to engage respondents, then move to specific or sensitive ones, as placing sensitive questions early can lead to higher abandonment rates. Keep in mind that respondents typically have a 10-15 minute attention span, so keep questions concise. Additionally, demographic questions should be at the end to avoid discouragement. Here’s a quick reference table for effective question ordering: Question Type Placement Recommendation Reason for Placement General Questions Start Engage respondents early Sensitive Questions Middle Maintain interest Specific Questions Following general Build context Demographic Questions End Prevent discouragement Examples of Multiple-Choice Questions How can you create effective multiple-choice questions that yield valuable insights? Start by ensuring your options are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. This way, you accurately capture all possible responses without confusion. Here are three key practices to improve your multiple-choice questions: Keep it Clear: Make sure your question stem is straightforward. Avoid complex phrasing that could confuse respondents about what you’re asking. Limit Your Choices: Stick to four or five answer options. Too many choices can overwhelm respondents and lead to poor decision-making. Include an “Other” Option: Adding an “Other” option with a text box lets respondents specify answers not listed, increasing the thoroughness of your data collection. Crafting Effective Rating Scale Questions Crafting effective rating scale questions is essential for gathering nuanced feedback that reflects the true sentiments of your respondents. Typically, these questions use a 5- or 7-point scale, allowing participants to express varying degrees of agreement or satisfaction, enhancing feedback granularity. When constructing these questions, make certain the scales are balanced and clearly defined, with equal intervals to prevent bias toward any end of the scale. It’s likewise beneficial to include specific descriptors for each point, such as “1 – Very Unsatisfied” to “5 – Very Satisfied,” to clarify the meaning behind each rating. Consistency in wording and structure across different surveys aids in trend analysis and comparison of results over time. Although rating scales provide quantitative data, consider following them up with open-ended questions for qualitative insights that can deepen your comprehension of customer sentiments, helping you make more informed decisions based on the feedback received. Utilizing Open-Ended Questions for Qualitative Insights What insights can you uncover by utilizing open-ended questions in your surveys? Open-ended questions allow respondents to share detailed thoughts and feelings that closed-ended questions often miss. By incorporating these questions, you can gain richer qualitative insights that reveal underlying motivations. Here are three key benefits of using open-ended questions in your surveys: Detailed Feedback: Respondents can express their opinions in their own words, providing context and depth to their answers. Unexpected Insights: You might discover valuable feedback that highlights areas for improvement or new opportunities for product development. Broad Comprehension: These questions are particularly effective at the beginning of surveys, helping you gather general insights before focusing on specific issues. While analyzing responses can be complex, the narratives gained from open-ended questions greatly improve your grasp of customer experiences, leading to more informed decisions. Measuring Customer Satisfaction With Targeted Questions Measuring customer satisfaction effectively involves using targeted questions that provide both quantitative and qualitative insights. You can utilize Likert scale questions, asking respondents to rate their likelihood of recommending your product on a scale from 1 to 10. This approach gives you a numerical value to work with. Furthermore, incorporating open-ended questions like “What did you like most about our service?” helps capture detailed customer experiences, offering valuable qualitative feedback. Implementing Net Promoter Score (NPS) questions allows you to assess overall customer loyalty by asking how likely customers are to recommend your brand. Rating scale questions can pinpoint specific areas for improvement, such as evaluating the quality of customer support on a scale from 1 to 5. Regularly analyzing this data will reveal trends over time, enabling you to make informed decisions that improve user experience and elevate retention rates. Analyzing and Interpreting Survey Responses When analyzing and interpreting survey responses, it’s crucial to differentiate between quantitative and qualitative data to derive meaningful insights. You’ll want to focus on three key aspects: Data Categorization: Quantitative data from closed-ended questions can be analyzed statistically and visually represented, whereas qualitative responses from open-ended questions need thematic coding to uncover common trends and sentiments. Response Rates: Be aware that a response rate of at least 30% is typically required for reliable insights. Low response rates can distort your findings. Demographic Comparisons: Comparing responses across different demographic segments can reveal valuable insights into user preferences, helping you identify where targeted strategies may be necessary. Utilizing statistical tools like regression analysis can likewise help you interpret relationships between variables and predict future trends. Regularly reviewing and updating your survey questions guarantees they remain relevant, capturing user insights effectively over time. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Good Survey Questions for Research? Good survey questions for research should prioritize clarity and neutrality to gather reliable responses. You can use various types, like closed-ended questions for quantitative data and open-ended questions for deeper insights. Consider pretesting your questions with a small group to refine them. Furthermore, start with general questions to engage respondents before moving to specific topics. Finally, place demographic questions at the end to maintain focus on the survey’s main content. What Are the 5 Good Research Questions? Good research questions guide your inquiry effectively. Here are five examples: 1) What factors influence consumer behavior in online shopping? 2) How does social media usage affect mental health among teenagers? 3) Why do certain communities have higher rates of obesity? 4) What’re the effects of remote work on employee productivity? 5) How can educational interventions improve student engagement? Each question is designed to encourage exploration and generate meaningful insights. What Is a 1 to 10 Survey Question Example? A 1 to 10 survey question asks you to rate your experience on a defined scale. For example, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how satisfied are you with our service?” Here, 1 represents complete dissatisfaction, whereas 10 signifies total satisfaction. This format helps gather quantitative data, making it easier to analyze trends. What Are the 7 Basic Questions in Market Research? In market research, you should consider seven basic questions. First, identify what customers want. Next, determine your target audience. Then, understand when purchasing decisions are made. It’s imperative to know where your product will be sold. Ask why customers choose one product over another. Furthermore, figure out how much customers are willing to pay. Finally, analyze how the competition is positioned to refine your market strategy effectively. Conclusion In summary, utilizing effective survey questions is vital for gathering meaningful data. By incorporating a variety of question types, such as open-ended, rating scales, and multiple-choice, you can improve the quality of your research. Thoughtfully framing questions and considering their order can further increase response rates. By implementing these strategies, you’ll gain valuable insights, enabling informed decisions and promoting a better comprehension of customer experiences. In the end, well-designed surveys are fundamental for driving continuous improvement in any organization. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Effective Survey Question Examples to Enhance Research" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When conducting research, effective survey questions are essential for gathering meaningful insights. You need to contemplate various types, such as open-ended, rating scales, and multiple-choice formats. Each question type serves a different purpose, helping you uncover both quantitative and qualitative data. Comprehending how to frame these questions can greatly impact your results. As you explore the ten examples provided, you’ll discover how to improve your survey design for better outcomes. Key Takeaways Combine multiple-choice and open-ended questions to capture both quantitative data and detailed qualitative insights. Use rating scale questions to gauge satisfaction on a defined scale, offering nuanced feedback. Ensure questions are clear and unbiased to avoid confusion and misleading data. Start with general questions to engage respondents, positioning sensitive topics in the middle for better response rates. Limit answer choices to four or five in multiple-choice questions to prevent overwhelming respondents. Understanding the Importance of Effective Survey Questions When you design a survey, the effectiveness of your questions plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality of the data you collect. Clear, unbiased questions are crucial; they guarantee that participants can express their opinions accurately. If your survey question examples are vague or leading, you risk collecting misleading data that undermines your research. Utilizing different kinds of survey questions, including ordinal survey questions, allows for a richer dataset. For instance, combining open-ended questions with closed-ended formats improves both qualitative and quantitative analysis. The order and framing of your questions as well matter; they can greatly influence how respondents answer, so design them thoughtfully to minimize bias. Regularly testing and refining your questions based on feedback guarantees they remain effective and relevant. Types of Survey Questions to Consider When designing your survey, consider the different types of questions you can use to gather valuable insights. Each format, whether it’s multiple-choice for quantifiable data or open-ended for qualitative feedback, serves a unique purpose in comprehending your audience. Striking a balance between these formats can improve your data collection, providing both breadth and depth in your findings. Question Format Diversity Diverse question formats play a crucial role in designing effective surveys, as each type serves specific purposes and can yield different insights. A survey should contain questions that are varied to improve data quality. For instance, survey multiple choice answer examples help quantify preferences easily, whereas rating scale questions gauge satisfaction levels on a 5 or 7-point scale. Open-ended questions invite detailed responses, uncovering unexpected insights. Dichotomous questions offer straightforward yes/no answers, perfect for binary decisions, whereas matrix questions allow for efficient evaluation of related items with the same response scale. Qualitative Vs Quantitative Insights Incorporating a range of question formats not just improves your survey’s structure but likewise sets the stage for gathering qualitative and quantitative insights. Qualitative insights come from open-ended questions like, “What features do you wish our product had?” These questions let respondents share detailed feedback, revealing user motivations and experiences. Conversely, quantitative insights are obtained through closed-ended questions, such as multiple-choice or Likert scale formats, allowing you to measure attitudes easily. Combining both types boosts comprehension of user sentiment. Furthermore, nominal questions offer demographic insights, whereas rating scale questions can convert qualitative feedback into quantifiable data, helping you track trends over time, such as changes in customer satisfaction levels. The Role of Question Framing in Survey Design The way you frame your survey questions can greatly impact the responses you receive. Positive framing tends to elicit more favorable feedback, whereas negative framing may reveal areas needing improvement but can likewise bias responses. Using neutral framing helps mitigate this bias, allowing respondents to express their true opinions without being led toward a specific viewpoint. Positive vs. Negative Framing When designing surveys, the way you frame your questions can greatly influence the responses you receive. Positive framing typically encourages respondents to provide favorable feedback, resulting in higher satisfaction ratings. Conversely, negative framing focuses on areas needing improvement, which may generate critical insights but can additionally discourage complete responses. Comprehending the impact of these two styles is essential for effective survey design. Framing Type Impact on Responses Example Question Positive Framing Higher satisfaction ratings “How satisfied are you with our service?” Negative Framing More critical feedback “What issues did you face with our service?” Neutral Framing Balanced and honest feedback “How would you rate our service overall?” Choosing the right framing can greatly affect your data quality and interpretation. Neutral Framing Benefits Neutral framing in survey questions serves as a crucial tool for gathering unbiased and reliable feedback. By avoiding leading or loaded language, you encourage respondents to share their honest and balanced opinions. Research shows that neutral questions yield more accurate data, as they don’t assume a positive or negative experience. This approach allows for a thorough comprehension of customer opinions. Furthermore, neutral framing improves response validity by reducing social desirability bias, where respondents might alter their answers to fit perceived expectations. Using consistent wording helps maintain comparability in trends over time. In the end, effective neutral framing promotes trust in the survey process, making respondents feel that their genuine opinions are valued and considered in decision-making. Key Considerations for Question Order Crafting the right order for survey questions is crucial, as it can greatly impact the quality and reliability of the responses you receive. The sequence of your questions can shape how respondents interpret later items, so start with general inquiries to engage them effectively. Sensitive questions should come later to minimize discomfort and the chance of abandonment, allowing respondents to feel more at ease. Furthermore, placing demographic questions at the end helps maintain engagement and reduces fatigue, which could distort responses. This logical flow from broad to specific not only improves the respondent experience but also aids in tracking trends over time. Consistent question ordering allows for better comparability in longitudinal studies, ensuring that your research yields reliable insights. By considering question order carefully, you set a solid foundation for gathering meaningful data that truly reflects your audience’s views. Tips for Optimizing Survey Completion Rates To optimize survey completion rates, you should keep your surveys concise and prioritize question order effectively. Aim for fewer than ten questions to maintain engagement, as longer surveys can lead to drop-offs. Keep Surveys Concise Keeping surveys concise is vital for maximizing completion rates, especially as research shows that respondents tend to lose interest when faced with lengthy questionnaires. To improve your survey’s effectiveness, consider these tips: Limit to 10 Questions: Keeping your survey under 10 questions helps prevent fatigue and maintains engagement. Focus on Key Information: Aim for concise questions that can be answered quickly, especially since mobile users have shorter attention spans. Mix Question Types: Using a variety of question formats can make the survey more engaging, helping you retain respondents’ attention. Prioritize Question Order When structuring a survey, the order in which you present questions can greatly impact completion rates and the quality of the data collected. Start with general questions to engage respondents, then move to specific or sensitive ones, as placing sensitive questions early can lead to higher abandonment rates. Keep in mind that respondents typically have a 10-15 minute attention span, so keep questions concise. Additionally, demographic questions should be at the end to avoid discouragement. Here’s a quick reference table for effective question ordering: Question Type Placement Recommendation Reason for Placement General Questions Start Engage respondents early Sensitive Questions Middle Maintain interest Specific Questions Following general Build context Demographic Questions End Prevent discouragement Examples of Multiple-Choice Questions How can you create effective multiple-choice questions that yield valuable insights? Start by ensuring your options are mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive. This way, you accurately capture all possible responses without confusion. Here are three key practices to improve your multiple-choice questions: Keep it Clear: Make sure your question stem is straightforward. Avoid complex phrasing that could confuse respondents about what you’re asking. Limit Your Choices: Stick to four or five answer options. Too many choices can overwhelm respondents and lead to poor decision-making. Include an “Other” Option: Adding an “Other” option with a text box lets respondents specify answers not listed, increasing the thoroughness of your data collection. Crafting Effective Rating Scale Questions Crafting effective rating scale questions is essential for gathering nuanced feedback that reflects the true sentiments of your respondents. Typically, these questions use a 5- or 7-point scale, allowing participants to express varying degrees of agreement or satisfaction, enhancing feedback granularity. When constructing these questions, make certain the scales are balanced and clearly defined, with equal intervals to prevent bias toward any end of the scale. It’s likewise beneficial to include specific descriptors for each point, such as “1 – Very Unsatisfied” to “5 – Very Satisfied,” to clarify the meaning behind each rating. Consistency in wording and structure across different surveys aids in trend analysis and comparison of results over time. Although rating scales provide quantitative data, consider following them up with open-ended questions for qualitative insights that can deepen your comprehension of customer sentiments, helping you make more informed decisions based on the feedback received. Utilizing Open-Ended Questions for Qualitative Insights What insights can you uncover by utilizing open-ended questions in your surveys? Open-ended questions allow respondents to share detailed thoughts and feelings that closed-ended questions often miss. By incorporating these questions, you can gain richer qualitative insights that reveal underlying motivations. Here are three key benefits of using open-ended questions in your surveys: Detailed Feedback: Respondents can express their opinions in their own words, providing context and depth to their answers. Unexpected Insights: You might discover valuable feedback that highlights areas for improvement or new opportunities for product development. Broad Comprehension: These questions are particularly effective at the beginning of surveys, helping you gather general insights before focusing on specific issues. While analyzing responses can be complex, the narratives gained from open-ended questions greatly improve your grasp of customer experiences, leading to more informed decisions. Measuring Customer Satisfaction With Targeted Questions Measuring customer satisfaction effectively involves using targeted questions that provide both quantitative and qualitative insights. You can utilize Likert scale questions, asking respondents to rate their likelihood of recommending your product on a scale from 1 to 10. This approach gives you a numerical value to work with. Furthermore, incorporating open-ended questions like “What did you like most about our service?” helps capture detailed customer experiences, offering valuable qualitative feedback. Implementing Net Promoter Score (NPS) questions allows you to assess overall customer loyalty by asking how likely customers are to recommend your brand. Rating scale questions can pinpoint specific areas for improvement, such as evaluating the quality of customer support on a scale from 1 to 5. Regularly analyzing this data will reveal trends over time, enabling you to make informed decisions that improve user experience and elevate retention rates. Analyzing and Interpreting Survey Responses When analyzing and interpreting survey responses, it’s crucial to differentiate between quantitative and qualitative data to derive meaningful insights. You’ll want to focus on three key aspects: Data Categorization: Quantitative data from closed-ended questions can be analyzed statistically and visually represented, whereas qualitative responses from open-ended questions need thematic coding to uncover common trends and sentiments. Response Rates: Be aware that a response rate of at least 30% is typically required for reliable insights. Low response rates can distort your findings. Demographic Comparisons: Comparing responses across different demographic segments can reveal valuable insights into user preferences, helping you identify where targeted strategies may be necessary. Utilizing statistical tools like regression analysis can likewise help you interpret relationships between variables and predict future trends. Regularly reviewing and updating your survey questions guarantees they remain relevant, capturing user insights effectively over time. Frequently Asked Questions What Are Good Survey Questions for Research? Good survey questions for research should prioritize clarity and neutrality to gather reliable responses. You can use various types, like closed-ended questions for quantitative data and open-ended questions for deeper insights. Consider pretesting your questions with a small group to refine them. Furthermore, start with general questions to engage respondents before moving to specific topics. Finally, place demographic questions at the end to maintain focus on the survey’s main content. What Are the 5 Good Research Questions? Good research questions guide your inquiry effectively. Here are five examples: 1) What factors influence consumer behavior in online shopping? 2) How does social media usage affect mental health among teenagers? 3) Why do certain communities have higher rates of obesity? 4) What’re the effects of remote work on employee productivity? 5) How can educational interventions improve student engagement? Each question is designed to encourage exploration and generate meaningful insights. What Is a 1 to 10 Survey Question Example? A 1 to 10 survey question asks you to rate your experience on a defined scale. For example, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how satisfied are you with our service?” Here, 1 represents complete dissatisfaction, whereas 10 signifies total satisfaction. This format helps gather quantitative data, making it easier to analyze trends. What Are the 7 Basic Questions in Market Research? In market research, you should consider seven basic questions. First, identify what customers want. Next, determine your target audience. Then, understand when purchasing decisions are made. It’s imperative to know where your product will be sold. Ask why customers choose one product over another. Furthermore, figure out how much customers are willing to pay. Finally, analyze how the competition is positioned to refine your market strategy effectively. Conclusion In summary, utilizing effective survey questions is vital for gathering meaningful data. By incorporating a variety of question types, such as open-ended, rating scales, and multiple-choice, you can improve the quality of your research. Thoughtfully framing questions and considering their order can further increase response rates. By implementing these strategies, you’ll gain valuable insights, enabling informed decisions and promoting a better comprehension of customer experiences. In the end, well-designed surveys are fundamental for driving continuous improvement in any organization. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Effective Survey Question Examples to Enhance Research" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Artificial intelligence is transforming how we cure disease, defend nations, and deliver goods. But the same technology driving this surge of innovation is also testing the limits of the system that supports it. Innovation is moving faster than infrastructure, and our energy strategy has to catch up. It’s time to manage energy as a strategic asset. While AI is fueling demand at historic levels, it also gives us the tools to use power more intelligently, stabilize the grid, and unlock capacity we already have. If we work together, AI can turn today’s energy challenge into tomorrow’s competitive advantage. INNOVATION IS OUTPACING THE GRID AI is reshaping the global economy, but the grid powering it was not built for this reality. Much of America’s power infrastructure is aging, fragmented, and structurally behind modern digital demands. The result: interconnection queues, delayed projects, constrained communities, and a widening gap between the power we need and the power we can deliver. This isn’t just a technology issue. It’s a national security issue. It’s a competitiveness issue. And, if we address it head-on, a generational opportunity. We need to shift the conversation from how much power we use to how well we use it. AI enables efficiencies we couldn’t achieve before. But technology alone won’t solve the problem. Progress requires new ways of working and collaboration among utilities, regulators, operators, and government to modernize the grid and use limited resources more intelligently. TURN POWER INTO AN ADVANTAGE In the AI economy, doing more with less is a competitive advantage. AI enables: Accurate demand forecasting that prevents overbuilding and unused capacity Predictive maintenance that avoids unplanned outages Dynamic cooling and energy management that respond in real time to workloads and climate Companies using these tools are building more resilient, cost-effective infrastructure that scales with demand, rather than chasing it. Across industries, leaders are proving that smarter systems improve both performance and efficiency. Utilities use AI to balance real-time supply and demand. Retailers optimize logistics to cut energy waste. Hospitals coordinate equipment usage to reduce load. Manufacturers automate energy management across active and idle systems. We have the tools to build the grid we need. But tools alone won’t meet the moment. COLLABORATION IS THE POWER MULTIPLIER WE’RE MISSING We can unlock years of trapped capacity if we break down the barriers between the organizations shaping the grid. Utilities, regulators, data center companies, and government all want the same outcome: reliable, resilient power that strengthens communities and supports economic growth. But historically we have worked in parallel instead of in partnership. We need transparent planning. Aligned incentives. Shared data. And the willingness to sit at the same table to problem solve together. We are entering an era where every kilowatt matters. AI gives us the tools to use energy smarter and to build a grid that’s cleaner, faster, and more resilient than the one we rely on today. But technology can’t do this alone. People and policies must enable it. If we break down silos between the public and private sectors, align around shared interests, and treat energy as a strategic asset, we can solve the power problem and build a strong foundation to support the next century of innovation. The opportunity is right in front of us, if we choose to take it together. Chris Crosby is CEO of Compass Datacenters. View the full article

The developers of a Virginia offshore wind project are asking a federal judge to block a The President administration order that halted construction of their project, along with four others, over national security concerns. Dominion Energy Virginia said in its lawsuit filed late Tuesday that the government’s order is “arbitrary and capricious” and unconstitutional. The Richmond-based company is developing Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, a project it says is essential to meet dramatically growing energy needs driven by dozens of new data centers. The Interior Department did not detail the security concerns in blocking the five projects on Monday. In a letter to project developers, Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management set a 90-day period — and possibly longer — “to determine whether the national security threats posed by this project can be adequately mitigated.” The other projects are the Vineyard Wind project under construction in Massachusetts, Revolution Wind in Rhode Island and Connecticut and two projects in New York: Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind. Democratic governors in those states have vowed to fight the order, the latest action by the The President administration to hobble offshore wind in its push against renewable energy sources. Dominion’s project has been under construction since early 2024 and was scheduled to come online early next year, providing enough energy to power about 660,000 homes. The company said the delay was costing it more than $5 million a day in losses solely for the ships used in round-the-clock construction, and that customers or the company would eventually bear the cost. Dominion called this week’s order “the latest in a series of irrational agency actions attacking offshore wind and then doubling down when those actions are found unlawful.” The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. U.S. District Judge Jamar Walker set a hearing for 2 p.m. Monday on Dominion’s request for a temporary restraining order. ___ The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters, and funded coverage areas at AP.org. —Associated Press View the full article

Explosion occurred during Friday prayers at Imam Ali bin Abi Talib mosque in HomsView the full article

In terms of creating engaging social media videos, choosing the right tools can greatly improve your content strategy. The environment is filled with options, from user-friendly platforms like Movavi and Wave.video to more advanced tools like Adobe Express and Canva. Each creator offers unique features that cater to different needs, ensuring your videos not just capture attention but additionally meet platform-specific standards. Want to find out which tools can best raise your videos? Key Takeaways Movavi offers robust AI editing tools and customizable logos, ideal for creating professional-quality social media videos. Wave.video features a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and a vast stock library, perfect for quick video creation. Canva provides over 25,000 templates and a one-click resizing tool, catering to both beginners and experienced marketers for engaging content. Animoto focuses on social media promotions with customizable templates, making it easy to create engaging videos for various platforms. InShot includes essential editing features like voice-overs and text overlays, designed for quick and intuitive video production for social media. Movavi Movavi is a versatile video creation tool that caters to a wide range of users, as it’s available on iOS, Android, and Mac platforms. As one of the best AI video editors, Movavi offers robust AI video editing tools that simplify the editing process. With pricing starting at $19.95 per month and an annual plan at $69.95 per year (currently 55% off), it’s an affordable option for many. You can remove watermarks, add custom logos and animated stickers, and adjust image sizes for various social media platforms. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced editors, allowing you to create engaging content optimized for social media, eventually enhancing audience engagement effectively using video editor artificial intelligence. Ripl Ripl stands out with its extensive template variety and customization options, allowing you to create videos that align perfectly with your brand’s identity. You can easily modify fonts, colors, and logos, ensuring your content remains consistent and recognizable. Moreover, Ripl’s performance analytics tools help you track engagement, providing valuable insights into how well your videos resonate with your audience. Template Variety and Customization How can you effectively create videos that reflect your brand while appealing to your target audience? With Ripl, a leading social media video creator, you gain access to hundreds of customizable templates designed for various industries. This best AI video editing software allows you to easily personalize your videos by adjusting fonts, colors, logos, and audio, ensuring they align with your brand identity. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible, even if you lack extensive editing experience. Moreover, Ripl’s AI editing tools help you optimize your video content effortlessly. You can schedule posts strategically, maximizing engagement on social media platforms. In the end, Ripl supports your video creation needs, providing the flexibility and customization necessary for effective brand representation. Performance Analytics Tools Comprehending how your video content performs is crucial for refining your social media strategy, and Ripl’s analytics tools provide valuable insights to help you achieve this. With these performance analytics tools, you can easily monitor engagement metrics and audience interactions. Ripl enables you to identify your best-performing posts, allowing you to make data-driven decisions for future content creation. Their scheduling tool optimizes post timing based on analytics, ensuring your videos reach your audience when engagement is highest. Furthermore, Ripl provides detailed performance reports that help you understand audience demographics and preferences. Wave.video Wave.video stands out as a versatile tool for anyone looking to create engaging video content for social media. Its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface makes video creation accessible, regardless of your skill level. With plans starting at just $16/month, you can create up to 10 videos and images, making it one of the best AI video editors on the market. The platform features AI video editing capabilities that include a video resizing tool, ensuring your content meets specific sizing guidelines for various social media platforms. You can export videos up to two minutes long, perfect for capturing attention. Moreover, Wave.video provides access to a vast stock library, allowing you to improve your videos with high-quality media and professional-grade templates. Adobe Express Adobe Express stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible for beginners who want to create social media videos. With a variety of customizable templates, themes, and fonts, you can produce versatile visual content that meets your specific needs. Even though it may have a steeper learning curve than some alternatives, the platform offers valuable features that improve your creative process. User-Friendly for Beginners In the domain of creating engaging social media videos, many beginners find themselves searching for tools that simplify the process without sacrificing quality. Adobe Express stands out as one of the best free AI video editors, thanks to its user-friendly interface and accessibility. Here are some features that make it ideal for novices: A free Starter plan and affordable Premium option at $9.99/month Intuitive editing tools for both web and mobile users A variety of customizable templates and themes Built-in collaboration tools for team projects A rich library of fonts and images for creative improvements With Adobe Express, you can easily navigate the platform, allowing you to focus on creating stunning videos with minimal hassle. Versatile Visual Content Creation When you want to create diverse visual content that stands out, Adobe Express offers an effective solution for users of all skill levels. This platform features a user-friendly interface that simplifies design, making it easy for both web and mobile users. With customizable templates, themes, and fonts, you can produce visually appealing posts for social media and marketing materials. Adobe Express also incorporates the best AI video generator and AI editing software, allowing you to add impressive AI video effects to your projects. Collaborating in real-time improves team efforts, ensuring brand consistency across all content. For $9.99/month, the Premium plan reveals advanced features, catering to various content needs, from promotional graphics to engaging social media videos. Canva Canva stands out as a versatile tool for creating social media videos, offering a combination of accessibility and extensive features. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced marketer, Canva caters to your needs with its user-friendly interface and collaborative options. You can choose from: Over 25,000 customizable templates 5,000+ animated templates for eye-catching visuals A library filled with stock images, videos, and music A one-click resizing feature for various platforms Free and Pro subscription plans starting at $120/year As one of the best AI video creator apps, Canva serves as an effective AI video editor, enabling seamless AI edits to improve your content. This makes it an ideal choice for creating engaging social media videos efficiently. Filmora9 Filmora9 serves as a strong video editing solution, appealing to both beginners and experienced creators alike. Its user-friendly interface simplifies the editing process, making it a popular choice for various skill levels. With rich green-screen effects, you can create dynamic, visually engaging content for social media. Plus, the multiple video import options streamline media integration, enhancing your creative workflow. Filmora9 offers limitless effects and sound perfection tools, ensuring your videos stand out. Feature Details Pricing Individual Annual Plan: $49.99 Editing Tools AI edit video maker available Effects Rich selection of effects Integration Multiple media file options Consider Filmora9 for your next project, especially if you’re exploring the best AI video generator app for artificial intelligence editing. InShot InShot stands out with its user-friendly interface, making video editing accessible for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The app optimizes your videos for various social media platforms, ensuring they meet specific sizing requirements for sites like Instagram and TikTok. With a range of customization features, including voice-overs, text overlays, and music integration, InShot improves your creative options as it keeps the editing process straightforward. User-Friendly Interface In the area of video editing apps, many users appreciate a straightforward approach that doesn’t overwhelm them with complexity. InShot shines with its user-friendly interface, allowing you to quickly create engaging content, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced editor. Here’s what makes it stand out: Intuitive design for easy navigation Crucial editing tools, like voice-overs and filters Customizable video sizes for social media Options for adding music, text, and emojis A free version that’s sufficient for casual users With InShot, you can produce the best AI video effortlessly. If you’re looking for a free YouTube AI video maker or curious about how can AI edit videos, this app provides a solid foundation for your creative projects. Social Media Optimization When creating videos for social media, optimizing content for each platform’s specific requirements is vital to guarantee your audience engages with your work. InShot is a potent, free app available on iOS and Android that helps you achieve this. It optimizes videos according to specific sizing guidelines, ensuring ideal presentation across platforms. With features like voice-overs, text overlays, and music integration, InShot stands out as one of the best AI tools for video editing free. Furthermore, its auto video maker capabilities simplify the editing process. You can even explore the best free create AI animation options for more engaging content. The user-friendly interface makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced editors, facilitating quick production of high-quality videos. Customization Features Creating engaging videos for social media isn’t just about the content; it also involves how well you can customize that content to fit the unique requirements of each platform. InShot stands out in this area with its robust customization features, perfect for users looking to improve their video presentations. Resize videos for ideal platform display Add voice-overs and text overlays for personalization Include music, filters, and emojis for engagement Support various aspect ratios for all social media Utilize an intuitive interface for seamless editing With InShot, you can easily adapt your videos, making it one of the best AI video generators for YouTube. Furthermore, its AI tool to edit text from video improves your content’s clarity and impact. Animoto Animoto stands out as a user-friendly video creation platform, designed to cater to individuals and businesses looking to produce high-quality videos without the steep learning curve typically associated with video editing software. With its drag-and-drop interface, you can easily create engaging videos using customizable templates for social media promotions, Facebook video ads, and Instagram content. You’ll appreciate the variety of fonts, video styling options, and music to improve your videos’ appeal. Plus, exporting in various formats makes sharing on platforms like YouTube seamless. Animoto’s pricing structure includes a free plan and paid options starting at $8/month, making it the best AI video generator for YouTube and a great text to video generator free option. Feature Details Benefit User Interface Drag-and-drop Easy for all skill levels Customizable Templates Social media-focused High-quality results Music Integration Various options Improved engagement Lumen5 Lumen5 transforms the video creation process by utilizing AI-powered technology to convert your text-based content, such as blog posts, into engaging videos. As one of the best text to video AI tools, it streamlines your workflow, making video production accessible. A vast library of royalty-free media improves your visuals. Supports scenery, square, and vertical formats for social media optimization. Customizable themes, fonts, and branded outros strengthen your identity. An intuitive drag-and-drop interface caters to all skill levels. Ideal as an AI video generator for YouTube, it simplifies artificial intelligence video editing. With Lumen5, you can efficiently turn your written content into enchanting videos that attract and engage your audience across various platforms. Animaker For those looking to create animated videos, Animaker offers a robust platform that makes the process easy and enjoyable. It’s recognized as one of the best AI animation generators, featuring tools like a character builder and professionally-designed templates. Whether you’re producing animated whiteboard videos, infographics, or GIFs, Animaker supports various styles to suit your creative needs. Its user-friendly interface is perfect for both beginners and experienced creators, simplifying the video creation process. You can easily add background music to improve your storytelling or even make a music video with AI. With pricing starting at $15/month for the Basic plan, it’s an accessible option for casual users and small businesses looking to boost their content. Frequently Asked Questions What Social Media Site Drives the Most Engagement? In terms of driving engagement, TikTok stands out with an impressive average engagement rate of 17.5%. In comparison, Instagram generates 3.5% engagement, whereas Facebook lags behind at 0.1%. Furthermore, video content accounts for 80% of all engagement on Facebook, emphasizing its effectiveness. YouTube similarly holds a significant role, with users spending around 40 minutes per session. Consequently, TikTok currently leads the pack in engagement across social media platforms. What Is the Best Video Maker for Social Media? When choosing the best video maker for social media, consider your specific needs and experience level. Canva offers a vast library of templates and a free plan, ideal for beginners. Adobe Express has customizable themes and a user-friendly interface, though it requires a monthly fee. Animoto’s drag-and-drop feature is great for marketers, whereas Wave.video provides resizing options. For mobile editing, InShot offers useful features at a low cost. Evaluate these tools to find your best fit. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5-5-5 rule on social media suggests you limit your posts to five lines of text, five hashtags, and five images or videos. This approach caters to shorter attention spans, helping you deliver concise and clear messages. By keeping your text brief, you improve retention. Using just five hashtags optimizes visibility without seeming spammy, whereas five visuals create an engaging and appealing post that captures your audience’s attention effectively. Which Social Media Is Best for Content Creators? When considering which social media is best for content creators, it largely depends on your goals and audience. TikTok thrives in short, engaging videos, appealing to younger users. Instagram’s Reels and Stories offer diverse formats for high engagement. YouTube is ideal for long-form content with monetization options. Facebook helps build community, whereas Pinterest is great for DIY and lifestyle videos. Each platform has unique advantages, so choose based on your content strategy and audience needs. Conclusion In conclusion, utilizing these 10 video creators can greatly improve your social media strategy. Each platform offers unique features customized to different needs, from user-friendly interfaces to AI-driven tools. By selecting the right tool, you can create engaging content that resonates with your audience and meets specific platform requirements. Whether you prioritize customization or optimization, these tools provide the resources necessary to boost your video marketing efforts and effectively capture viewer attention across various channels. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Best Social Media Video Creators for Engaging Content" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In terms of creating engaging social media videos, choosing the right tools can greatly improve your content strategy. The environment is filled with options, from user-friendly platforms like Movavi and Wave.video to more advanced tools like Adobe Express and Canva. Each creator offers unique features that cater to different needs, ensuring your videos not just capture attention but additionally meet platform-specific standards. Want to find out which tools can best raise your videos? Key Takeaways Movavi offers robust AI editing tools and customizable logos, ideal for creating professional-quality social media videos. Wave.video features a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and a vast stock library, perfect for quick video creation. Canva provides over 25,000 templates and a one-click resizing tool, catering to both beginners and experienced marketers for engaging content. Animoto focuses on social media promotions with customizable templates, making it easy to create engaging videos for various platforms. InShot includes essential editing features like voice-overs and text overlays, designed for quick and intuitive video production for social media. Movavi Movavi is a versatile video creation tool that caters to a wide range of users, as it’s available on iOS, Android, and Mac platforms. As one of the best AI video editors, Movavi offers robust AI video editing tools that simplify the editing process. With pricing starting at $19.95 per month and an annual plan at $69.95 per year (currently 55% off), it’s an affordable option for many. You can remove watermarks, add custom logos and animated stickers, and adjust image sizes for various social media platforms. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced editors, allowing you to create engaging content optimized for social media, eventually enhancing audience engagement effectively using video editor artificial intelligence. Ripl Ripl stands out with its extensive template variety and customization options, allowing you to create videos that align perfectly with your brand’s identity. You can easily modify fonts, colors, and logos, ensuring your content remains consistent and recognizable. Moreover, Ripl’s performance analytics tools help you track engagement, providing valuable insights into how well your videos resonate with your audience. Template Variety and Customization How can you effectively create videos that reflect your brand while appealing to your target audience? With Ripl, a leading social media video creator, you gain access to hundreds of customizable templates designed for various industries. This best AI video editing software allows you to easily personalize your videos by adjusting fonts, colors, logos, and audio, ensuring they align with your brand identity. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible, even if you lack extensive editing experience. Moreover, Ripl’s AI editing tools help you optimize your video content effortlessly. You can schedule posts strategically, maximizing engagement on social media platforms. In the end, Ripl supports your video creation needs, providing the flexibility and customization necessary for effective brand representation. Performance Analytics Tools Comprehending how your video content performs is crucial for refining your social media strategy, and Ripl’s analytics tools provide valuable insights to help you achieve this. With these performance analytics tools, you can easily monitor engagement metrics and audience interactions. Ripl enables you to identify your best-performing posts, allowing you to make data-driven decisions for future content creation. Their scheduling tool optimizes post timing based on analytics, ensuring your videos reach your audience when engagement is highest. Furthermore, Ripl provides detailed performance reports that help you understand audience demographics and preferences. Wave.video Wave.video stands out as a versatile tool for anyone looking to create engaging video content for social media. Its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface makes video creation accessible, regardless of your skill level. With plans starting at just $16/month, you can create up to 10 videos and images, making it one of the best AI video editors on the market. The platform features AI video editing capabilities that include a video resizing tool, ensuring your content meets specific sizing guidelines for various social media platforms. You can export videos up to two minutes long, perfect for capturing attention. Moreover, Wave.video provides access to a vast stock library, allowing you to improve your videos with high-quality media and professional-grade templates. Adobe Express Adobe Express stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible for beginners who want to create social media videos. With a variety of customizable templates, themes, and fonts, you can produce versatile visual content that meets your specific needs. Even though it may have a steeper learning curve than some alternatives, the platform offers valuable features that improve your creative process. User-Friendly for Beginners In the domain of creating engaging social media videos, many beginners find themselves searching for tools that simplify the process without sacrificing quality. Adobe Express stands out as one of the best free AI video editors, thanks to its user-friendly interface and accessibility. Here are some features that make it ideal for novices: A free Starter plan and affordable Premium option at $9.99/month Intuitive editing tools for both web and mobile users A variety of customizable templates and themes Built-in collaboration tools for team projects A rich library of fonts and images for creative improvements With Adobe Express, you can easily navigate the platform, allowing you to focus on creating stunning videos with minimal hassle. Versatile Visual Content Creation When you want to create diverse visual content that stands out, Adobe Express offers an effective solution for users of all skill levels. This platform features a user-friendly interface that simplifies design, making it easy for both web and mobile users. With customizable templates, themes, and fonts, you can produce visually appealing posts for social media and marketing materials. Adobe Express also incorporates the best AI video generator and AI editing software, allowing you to add impressive AI video effects to your projects. Collaborating in real-time improves team efforts, ensuring brand consistency across all content. For $9.99/month, the Premium plan reveals advanced features, catering to various content needs, from promotional graphics to engaging social media videos. Canva Canva stands out as a versatile tool for creating social media videos, offering a combination of accessibility and extensive features. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced marketer, Canva caters to your needs with its user-friendly interface and collaborative options. You can choose from: Over 25,000 customizable templates 5,000+ animated templates for eye-catching visuals A library filled with stock images, videos, and music A one-click resizing feature for various platforms Free and Pro subscription plans starting at $120/year As one of the best AI video creator apps, Canva serves as an effective AI video editor, enabling seamless AI edits to improve your content. This makes it an ideal choice for creating engaging social media videos efficiently. Filmora9 Filmora9 serves as a strong video editing solution, appealing to both beginners and experienced creators alike. Its user-friendly interface simplifies the editing process, making it a popular choice for various skill levels. With rich green-screen effects, you can create dynamic, visually engaging content for social media. Plus, the multiple video import options streamline media integration, enhancing your creative workflow. Filmora9 offers limitless effects and sound perfection tools, ensuring your videos stand out. Feature Details Pricing Individual Annual Plan: $49.99 Editing Tools AI edit video maker available Effects Rich selection of effects Integration Multiple media file options Consider Filmora9 for your next project, especially if you’re exploring the best AI video generator app for artificial intelligence editing. InShot InShot stands out with its user-friendly interface, making video editing accessible for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The app optimizes your videos for various social media platforms, ensuring they meet specific sizing requirements for sites like Instagram and TikTok. With a range of customization features, including voice-overs, text overlays, and music integration, InShot improves your creative options as it keeps the editing process straightforward. User-Friendly Interface In the area of video editing apps, many users appreciate a straightforward approach that doesn’t overwhelm them with complexity. InShot shines with its user-friendly interface, allowing you to quickly create engaging content, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced editor. Here’s what makes it stand out: Intuitive design for easy navigation Crucial editing tools, like voice-overs and filters Customizable video sizes for social media Options for adding music, text, and emojis A free version that’s sufficient for casual users With InShot, you can produce the best AI video effortlessly. If you’re looking for a free YouTube AI video maker or curious about how can AI edit videos, this app provides a solid foundation for your creative projects. Social Media Optimization When creating videos for social media, optimizing content for each platform’s specific requirements is vital to guarantee your audience engages with your work. InShot is a potent, free app available on iOS and Android that helps you achieve this. It optimizes videos according to specific sizing guidelines, ensuring ideal presentation across platforms. With features like voice-overs, text overlays, and music integration, InShot stands out as one of the best AI tools for video editing free. Furthermore, its auto video maker capabilities simplify the editing process. You can even explore the best free create AI animation options for more engaging content. The user-friendly interface makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced editors, facilitating quick production of high-quality videos. Customization Features Creating engaging videos for social media isn’t just about the content; it also involves how well you can customize that content to fit the unique requirements of each platform. InShot stands out in this area with its robust customization features, perfect for users looking to improve their video presentations. Resize videos for ideal platform display Add voice-overs and text overlays for personalization Include music, filters, and emojis for engagement Support various aspect ratios for all social media Utilize an intuitive interface for seamless editing With InShot, you can easily adapt your videos, making it one of the best AI video generators for YouTube. Furthermore, its AI tool to edit text from video improves your content’s clarity and impact. Animoto Animoto stands out as a user-friendly video creation platform, designed to cater to individuals and businesses looking to produce high-quality videos without the steep learning curve typically associated with video editing software. With its drag-and-drop interface, you can easily create engaging videos using customizable templates for social media promotions, Facebook video ads, and Instagram content. You’ll appreciate the variety of fonts, video styling options, and music to improve your videos’ appeal. Plus, exporting in various formats makes sharing on platforms like YouTube seamless. Animoto’s pricing structure includes a free plan and paid options starting at $8/month, making it the best AI video generator for YouTube and a great text to video generator free option. Feature Details Benefit User Interface Drag-and-drop Easy for all skill levels Customizable Templates Social media-focused High-quality results Music Integration Various options Improved engagement Lumen5 Lumen5 transforms the video creation process by utilizing AI-powered technology to convert your text-based content, such as blog posts, into engaging videos. As one of the best text to video AI tools, it streamlines your workflow, making video production accessible. A vast library of royalty-free media improves your visuals. Supports scenery, square, and vertical formats for social media optimization. Customizable themes, fonts, and branded outros strengthen your identity. An intuitive drag-and-drop interface caters to all skill levels. Ideal as an AI video generator for YouTube, it simplifies artificial intelligence video editing. With Lumen5, you can efficiently turn your written content into enchanting videos that attract and engage your audience across various platforms. Animaker For those looking to create animated videos, Animaker offers a robust platform that makes the process easy and enjoyable. It’s recognized as one of the best AI animation generators, featuring tools like a character builder and professionally-designed templates. Whether you’re producing animated whiteboard videos, infographics, or GIFs, Animaker supports various styles to suit your creative needs. Its user-friendly interface is perfect for both beginners and experienced creators, simplifying the video creation process. You can easily add background music to improve your storytelling or even make a music video with AI. With pricing starting at $15/month for the Basic plan, it’s an accessible option for casual users and small businesses looking to boost their content. Frequently Asked Questions What Social Media Site Drives the Most Engagement? In terms of driving engagement, TikTok stands out with an impressive average engagement rate of 17.5%. In comparison, Instagram generates 3.5% engagement, whereas Facebook lags behind at 0.1%. Furthermore, video content accounts for 80% of all engagement on Facebook, emphasizing its effectiveness. YouTube similarly holds a significant role, with users spending around 40 minutes per session. Consequently, TikTok currently leads the pack in engagement across social media platforms. What Is the Best Video Maker for Social Media? When choosing the best video maker for social media, consider your specific needs and experience level. Canva offers a vast library of templates and a free plan, ideal for beginners. Adobe Express has customizable themes and a user-friendly interface, though it requires a monthly fee. Animoto’s drag-and-drop feature is great for marketers, whereas Wave.video provides resizing options. For mobile editing, InShot offers useful features at a low cost. Evaluate these tools to find your best fit. What Is the 5 5 5 Rule on Social Media? The 5-5-5 rule on social media suggests you limit your posts to five lines of text, five hashtags, and five images or videos. This approach caters to shorter attention spans, helping you deliver concise and clear messages. By keeping your text brief, you improve retention. Using just five hashtags optimizes visibility without seeming spammy, whereas five visuals create an engaging and appealing post that captures your audience’s attention effectively. Which Social Media Is Best for Content Creators? When considering which social media is best for content creators, it largely depends on your goals and audience. TikTok thrives in short, engaging videos, appealing to younger users. Instagram’s Reels and Stories offer diverse formats for high engagement. YouTube is ideal for long-form content with monetization options. Facebook helps build community, whereas Pinterest is great for DIY and lifestyle videos. Each platform has unique advantages, so choose based on your content strategy and audience needs. Conclusion In conclusion, utilizing these 10 video creators can greatly improve your social media strategy. Each platform offers unique features customized to different needs, from user-friendly interfaces to AI-driven tools. By selecting the right tool, you can create engaging content that resonates with your audience and meets specific platform requirements. Whether you prioritize customization or optimization, these tools provide the resources necessary to boost your video marketing efforts and effectively capture viewer attention across various channels. Image via Google Gemini This article, "10 Best Social Media Video Creators for Engaging Content" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Stocks moved slightly lower in midday Friday trading as investors returned from the Christmas holiday. Trading is expected to be light. The S&P 500 index was down 0.1% as of 12:15 p.m. ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 0.2%, and the Nasdaq composite was down less than 0.1%. Institutional investors are largely closed out of their positions for the year. The S&P 500 has climbed nearly 18% this year, helped by the deregulatory policies of the The President administration as well as investor optimism about the future of artificial intelligence. Gold and silver prices continued to climb, with silver rising more than 7% to $76.88 an ounce. Gold was up 1.4%. Both precious metals have risen this year as investors have looked for safe havens outside of stocks and bonds, and silver has also risen sharply due supply constraints. Miners like Freeport-McMoRan were among the biggest gainers Friday. Earlier surges in gold prices partly reflected worries during the U.S. government shutdown. Expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will cut interest rates further in the new year, weakening the dollar against other currencies, have also fueled buying of gold. Shares of Target rose 2% after The Financial Times reported that an activist investor is taking a stake in the retail giant. U.S. crude oil fell nearly 2% and Brent crude fell more than 1%. Markets in Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia were closed. Most European markets remained closed Friday. View the full article

Patrick Terrance Donlon, CEO of Trusted American Mortgage, settled allegations from 21 states another person took industry education courses for him. View the full article

Rialto Capital allegedly engineered a way to keep it in default so that the company could win extra fees over time, according to a lawsuit filed Tuesday. View the full article