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As I write this, I'm coming off a lunch break that lasted a little too long because I couldn't stop watching YouTube Shorts on my TV. And if Instagram Reels are your own vertical video poison—and you own an Amazon Fire TV device—you can now do the same. Starting today, you can download the new Instagram for TV app to watch Reels on your big screen via a dedicated interface that should be way more natural than simply casting the mobile app from your phone. Currently exclusive to Amazon devices, the Instagram for TV app supports up to five accounts and comes with full functionality for searching for Reels and profiles, as well as liking Reels and browsing comments or reactions (although text posts and photo posts are not included). Unlike on the standard mobile feed, Amazon says "Reels are organized into channels tuned to your interests," which you can see from a horizontal home screen. These channels are somewhat similar to the YouTube Shorts interface that's baked into the standard YouTube TV app, showing you a small selection of shorts you can choose from based on a thumbnail. Examples include "For you" and "Popular with Friends," but you're also still able to swipe past any Reel to your heart's content, and let the algorithm take you for a ride. A post from Meta also says channels could include Reels tailored to a specific topics that match your interests, like "sports highlights" or "hidden travel gems," although the company hasn't provided any screenshots or videos showing this off quite yet. According to Meta, the new app is currently "an early test." It's starting with U.S.-based Amazon devices, and the company says it will "expand to more devices and countries" as it learns more (Amazon also says it's the "first" company to get the app, implying others will get their own versions in the future). What devices support Instagram for TV?Currently, the Instagram for TV app is available in the Amazon Appstore for the following devices: Fire TV Stick HD Fire TV Stick 4K Plus Fire TV Stick 4K Max (1st and 2nd Gen) Fire TV 2-Series Fire TV 4-Series Fire TV Omni QLED Series In addition to adding channels to the Reels experience, Meta says that future updates may also add ways to use your phone as a remote, share feeds with friends, and explore "a more intuitive way to channel surf." Instagram for TV leaves TikTok as the last major short form video platform without a dedicated TV app, although The Information reported earlier this Summer that TikTok is looking to catch up soon. How to watch Instagram Reels on any smart TV or streaming deviceWhile official Instagram for TV support is currently limited to Amazon devices, that doesn't mean you're out of luck if you don't have a Fire TV stick or display. To watch Instagram Reels on your TV without using the Instagram for TV app, open Instagram Reels on your phone and start browsing. Next, pull up your phone's quick settings menu by swiping down from the top-right corner. On iOS, search for the screen mirroring button (which looks like two overlapping screens), and on Android, search for a button that says something like "Cast" (it will vary depending on your device). Tap it to see any compatible wireless screen mirroring devices nearby, which will let you view the mobile Instagram app on a TV screen, and even send audio over with it. It's not foolproof—my LG OLED TV works with iOS Screen Mirroring but not Pixel casting—but it's worth a shot. View the full article

Earlier this month, the State Department announced that it was instructing U.S. embassy staff around the world to reject work visa applications from individuals involved in what it described as “censorship” of Americans’ speech online. In a cable that was first leaked to Reuters, consular officers were instructed to review LinkedIn profiles of visa applicants mentioning work history involving “misinformation, disinformation, content moderation, fact-checking, compliance, and online safety.” This work includes journalists and fact-checkers, academics, people working in media literacy, and a broad range of tech workers in a field known as “Trust and Safety.” This isn’t the first such visa restriction stemming from what the The President administration views as censorship. Nor is it the first Republican assault on academics and tech workers who monitor online disinformation. Instead, this represents the latest escalation in a five-year campaign by the GOP and its allies to discredit misinformation research, which they’ve long contended silences conservative views. In April 2022, the Biden administration appointed Nina Jankowicz, a disinformation researcher, to lead the Department of Homeland Security’s Disinformation Governance Board, tasked with aiding government efforts to understand and mitigate false information related to border security, human trafficking, and domestic terrorism. Almost immediately, the board came under attack from Republicans like Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz and far-right pundit Tucker Carlson, who likened the body to a “Ministry of Truth.” Jankowicz herself endured all manner of abuse, including death threats and threats of sexual violence; she resigned her post in May of 2022 and the entire project was shuttered by the end of that summer. In the years since, she cofounded the American Sunlight Project, a nonprofit aimed at protecting Americans from disinformation, and serves as its CEO. The Republican attempt to kneecap disinformation researchers, she says, is “part of a broader attack not only on trust and safety or content moderation, but on anybody and any organization that attempts to safeguard our shared reality or the truth.” ‘Woke speech police’ There was a time when combating misinformation and foreign interference in elections was a bipartisan effort. In 2018, Facebook was summoned to congress to answer for the Cambridge Analytica scandal, in which a British consultancy was accused of targeting Russian election disinformation to Facebook users. “We’re here because of what you, Mr. Zuckerberg, have described as a breach of trust, “Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota) said to Zuckerberg. Meta and other tech companies soon ramped up their fact-checking operations. Meta began partnering with news outlets like Snopes, the Associated Press, and others, to fact check viral information online. It also tightened its data-sharing policies, expanded its policy teams, and implemented a global trusted partner program to work with nonprofits to monitor harmful content online. It was an imperfect system, but certainly better than what platforms had done prior to 2016. But those enforcement policies wound up angering Republicans, who felt disproportionately targeted by them.Tech companies were not in fact censoring their freedom of speech. Even if they had been, it wouldn’t be a violation of the First Amendment, which only protects citizens from government censorship. The problem was Republicans’ tendency to disseminate material that contains misleading content. One study found that conservatives were eight times more likely to spread misinformation than those who lean liberal. After 2020, conservative ire at tech companies for censoring their posts reached a fever pitch, fueled by the platforms’ attempt to regulate anti-vaccine content during the Covid-19 pandemic and their deprioritizing of reports about allegedly compromising information about President Biden on his son Hunter Biden’s laptop. By 2023, when Ohio Republican Rep. Jim Jordan, became chair of the House Judiciary Committee, his party began subpoenaing Big Tech and research organizations that study online hate speech and misinformation. In tandem, lawsuits from Republican activists against those very research organizations eventually made it politically and financially cumbersome for many of these organizations to continue functioning. The Stanford Internet Observatory, a prominent disinformation watchdog, effectively shuttered its doors due to Republican attacks last year. “Big Tech is out to get conservatives, and is increasingly willing to undermine First Amendment values by complying with the Biden Administration’s directives that suppress freedom of speech online,” Jordan wrote to Zuckerberg in his 2022 subpoena. “Because of Big Tech’s wide reach, it can serve as a powerful and effective partisan arm of the ‘woke speech police.’” Capitulation As it became clear Donald The President could defeat Kamala Harris in last year’s election, Zuckerberg capitulated — first with reticence, then with enthusiasm. In August of last year, he sent a letter to Jordan apologizing for letting the platform go too far in censoring posts related to the COVID-19 vaccine—which Republicans have sowed skepticism over its perceived safety. Zuckerberg also admitted that Meta demoted posts about the Hunter Biden scandal. Then, this January, shortly before The President’s inauguration, Zuckerberg, wearing a black t-shirt and gold pendant chain, hosted an infamous Facebook Live in which he announced that his company would no longer invest in fact-checking. Echoing Gaetz and Carlson, the CEO attacked legacy media for focusing too much on the threat of misinformation to democracy. “Fact-checkers have just been too politically biased and have destroyed more trust than they’ve created,” he said. There’s also a significant financial motivation behind divesting from trust and safety initiatives. “They don’t want to spend all that money on what is a very expensive investment,” Jankowicz says. By Meta’s own estimates the company has spent $20 billion on trust and safety operations since 2016. It’s one thing for tech companies to fire their fact-checkers and content moderators — for the most part, they’re within their legal right to do so, as long as they figure out an alternative way to remove child abuse material. It’s a very different thing for the government to obstruct tech companies from hiring content moderators, which arguably is a violation of the company’s first amendment rights. Theodora Skeadas, a former associate on Twitter’s Public Policy team, worries that the new rules will be used to harass trust and safety workers in the same way researchers like Jankowicz have been harassed. “The work we do as trust and safety workers involves ensuring safe experiences for children and women online, and fighting fraud, terrorism, and hate,” she says. ”I observe the irony, too, that this measure entails heavy-handed censorship.” Skeadas says that trust & safety workers are scrubbing their LinkedIn of the keywords the government might find objectionable. A Faustian bargain While Big Tech CEOs were quick to speak out against the The President administration’s blanket $100,000 fees for H-1B workers—which would have disproportionately impacted foreign software engineers working for major tech firms (and now appears to have been dramatically narrowed in scope)—not a single CEO has spoken out against these new rules. That might be because the newfound allyship with The President seems to be paying off for the platforms. The The President administration has spent much of this year attacking foreign tech regulators, including in the E.U., which recently passed the Digital Services Act—requiring social media companies to more aggressively police disinformation and other illegal content—and the Digital Markets Act, which was designed to curb Big Tech’s anti-competitive practices. “Since the administration has been in office, there has been an increasing amount of pressure and, I would say, attacks on regulators, civil servants, and researchers abroad as well,” Jankowicz says. The administration has even sanctioned foreign officials for attempting to regulate Big Tech companies. This summer, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced very similar restrictions to the H1B memo for foreign government workers who the administration viewed as targeting Americans’ First amendment rights. The administration sanctioned Brazil Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, and, later, his wife, under this new policy in what appears to be a politically motivated retribution for ordering Twitter be blocked in Brazil and later extended the sanctions to his wife. For the tech companies, there’s a clear upside to this Faustian bargain: Go along with the administration’s narrative on censorship—even if that means sacrificing the safety of your own workers and risking the further fracturing of American society—and the entire might of the U.S. government will reward you. View the full article

Hedge fund billionaire is latest Wall Street figure to express concerns Donald The President will pick ally to chair central bankView the full article

Susie Wiles reveals administration’s divisions over tariffs, Epstein files and the vice-president’s shifting allegiancesView the full article

The amount of electricity data centers use in the U.S. in the coming years is expected to be significant. But regular reports of proposals for new ones and cancellations of planned ones mean that it’s difficult to know exactly how many data centers will actually be built and how much electricity might be required to run them. As a researcher of energy policy who has studied the cost challenges associated with new utility infrastructure, I know that uncertainty comes with a cost. In the electricity sector, it is the challenge of state utility regulators to decide who pays what shares of the costs associated with generating and serving these types of operations, sometimes broadly called “large load centers.” States are exploring different approaches, each with strengths, weaknesses, and potential drawbacks. A new type of customer? For years, large electricity customers such as textile mills and refineries have used enough electricity to power a small city. Moreover, their construction timelines were more aligned with the development time of new electricity infrastructure. If a company wanted to build a new textile mill and the utility needed to build a new gas-fired power plant to serve it, the construction on both could start around the same time. Both could be ready in two and a half to three years, and the textile mill could start paying for the costs necessary to serve it. Modern data centers use a similar amount of electricity but can be built in nine to 12 months. To meet that projected demand, construction of a new gas-fired power plant, or a solar farm with battery storage, must begin a year—maybe two—before the data center breaks ground. During the time spent building the electrical supply, computing technology advances, including both the capabilities and the efficiency of the kinds of calculations artificial intelligence systems require. Both factors affect how much electricity a data center will use once it is built. Technological, logistical, and planning changes mean there is a lot of uncertainty about how much electricity a data center will ultimately use. So it’s very hard for a utility company to know how much generating capacity to start building. Ulysse Bellier/AFP via Getty Images Handling the risks of development This uncertainty costs money: A power plant could be built in advance, only to find out that some or all of its capacity isn’t needed. Or no power plant is built, and a data center pops up, competing for a limited supply of electricity. Either way, someone needs to pay—for the excess capacity or for the increased price of what power is available. There are three possible groups that might pay: the utilities that provide electricity, the data center customers, and the rest of the customers on the system. However, utility companies have largely ensured their risk is minimal. Under most state utility-regulation processes, state officials review spending proposals from utility companies to determine what expenses can be passed on to customers. That includes operating expenses such as salaries and fuel costs, as well as capital investments, such as new power plants and other equipment. Regulators typically examine whether proposed expenses are useful for providing service to customers and reasonable for the utility to expect to incur. Utilities have been very careful to provide their regulators with evidence about the costs and effects of proposed data centers to justify passing the costs of proposed investments in new power plants along to whomever the customers happen to be. Regulators, then, are left to equitably allocate the costs to the prospective data center customers and the rest of the ratepayers, including homes and businesses. In different states, this is playing out differently. Kentucky’s approach to usefulness Kentucky is attempting to address the demand uncertainty by conditionally approving two new natural gas-fired generators in the state. However, the utility companies—Louisville Gas & Electric and Kentucky Utilities—must demonstrate that those plants will actually be needed and used. But it’s not clear how they could do that, especially considering the time frames involved. For instance, suppose the utility has a letter of agreement or even a contract with a new data center or other large customer. That might be sufficient proof for the regulator to approve charging customers for the costs of building a new power plant. But it’s not clear what would happen if the data center ends up not being built, or needing much less power than expected. If the utility can’t get the money from the data center company—because they bill customers based on actual usage—that leaves regular consumers on the hook. Eli Hiller/For The Washington Post via Getty Images Ohio’s ‘demand ratchet’ and credit guarantee In Ohio, the major power company AEP has a specific rate plan for data centers and other large electricity customers. One element, called a “demand ratchet,” is designed to mitigate month-to-month uncertainty in electricity consumption by data centers. The data center’s monthly bill is based on the current month’s demand or 85% of the highest monthly demand from the previous 11 months—whichever is higher. The benefit is that it protects against a data center using huge amounts of electricity one month and very little the next, which would otherwise yield a much lower bill. The ratchet helps ensure that the data center is paying a significant share of the cost of providing enough electricity, even if it doesn’t use as much as was expected. This ratchet effectively locks in the data center’s payments for 12 months, but regulators might expect a longer commitment from the center. For instance, Florida’s utilities regulator has approved an agreement that would require a data center company to pay for 70% of the agreed-upon demand in their entire electricity contract, even if the company didn’t use the power. Another aspect of Ohio’s approach addresses the risk of changing business plans or technology. AEP requires a credit guarantee, like a deposit, letter of credit or parent company guarantee of payment, equal to 50% of the customer’s expected minimum bill under the contract. While this theoretically reduces the risk borne by other customers, it also raises concerns. For example, a utility may not end up signing contracts directly with a large, well-known, wealthy technology company but with a subsidiary corporation with a more generic name—imagine something like “Westside Data Center LLC”—created solely to build and operate one data center. If the data center’s plans or technology changes, that subsidiary could declare bankruptcy, leaving the other customers with the remaining costs. Harnessing strength in flexibility A key advantage of these new types of customers is that they are extremely nimble in the way they use electricity. If data centers can make money based on their flexibility, as they have in Texas, then a portion of those profits can be returned to the other customers that shared the investment risk. A similar mechanism is being implemented in Missouri: If the utility makes extra money from large customers, then 65% of that revenue increase is returned to the other customers. Change is coming to the U.S. electricity system, but nobody is sure how much. The methods by which states are trying to allocate the cost of that uncertainty vary, but the critical element is understanding their respective strengths and weaknesses to craft a system that is fair for everyone. Theodore J. Kury is a director of energy studies at the University of Florida. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

Former UK chancellor to lead start-up’s effort to spread ‘democratic’ AI across the worldView the full article

New Year's Eve is my favorite holiday. I love a designated time to look forward and to reflect back, ideally while getting tipsy with friends. The turn of a new year is also a time when I’m grateful for my habit of writing down every little thing—and I don’t just mean getting my thoughts and feelings down in a journal. I’m talking about tracking every book read, every mile run, and every beer crushed (approximately). So if you’re interested in documenting your life—and you should be!—I highly recommend using a wonderfully detailed spreadsheet. I’m not talking about bullet journaling (which can be cool, but which I find too artistically daunting). I simply create a Google sheet full of different color-coded tabs so that I can track any number of ways to measure a year. From the most thorough travel plans to your fitness journey, if you have a goal, that goal needs a spreadsheet tab. It’s a fun, slightly nerdy technique that helps me visualize my life in a way that traditional journaling can’t. Here’s why I think this year, you should start your own spreadsheet to track all the little things in your life. How to turn anything into a trackable achievementThe spreadsheet journal is perfect for us freaks who like to combine sentimentalism with statistics. Whatever metrics you choose to jot down, you can frame them around a sense of accomplishment. Your smart watch can track how many steps you’ve taken. A spreadsheet journal, however, is where you can appreciate how many steps you’ve achieved. From there, you can have fun with the numbers, converting those steps into miles or finding patterns over time or in whatever suits your nerdy brain. Go wild. Create different tabs dedicated to different areas of your life, so you can appreciate how much you have going on. I’ll throw around some ideas below, but at the end of the day, this technique is really about recognizing the value in every little number that defines your life. It sounds counterintuitive, but please, don’t get too caught up in the details. The core philosophy: track everything, judge nothingThe foundation of my system comes down to three main principles: Radical honesty without shame. Every entry is data, not a judgment. Missed a week of workouts? Log it. The spreadsheet reveals patterns—maybe you always skip exercise when work gets stressful—which lets you plan around obstacles instead of feeling guilty about them. Micro-goals over macro-dreams. Break each resolution into the smallest possible action. "Write a book" becomes "write 250 words daily." These micro-goals are easy to track, hard to rationalize away, and create momentum through small wins. Weekly reviews, monthly adjustments. You'll spend 10 minutes every Sunday reviewing your data and 30 minutes at month's end analyzing trends and tweaking your approach. This prevents the "check back in December" trap where you discover too late that nothing worked. How to create your own tracking spreadsheetFirst things first: Choose your spreadsheet software. I opt for the ease of Google Sheets, but I understand you might have some privacy concerns there. Or maybe you’re simply a master at Excel. The main takeaway is to create one master file with as many different tabs as you see fit. Include tabs tracking your health/fitness goals, books/movies/TV you’ve consumed, your finances/budgeting, and whatever else is significant to you: Hours slept Miles walked Concerts attended Movies watched Books started Books finished Date nights Places traveled Gifts given Thank-you notes sent Time spent in traffic Playlists created Make sure you include a column for adding notes to your entries—some personal commentary to spice up the statistics. Use this template to help get startedI've created a barebones template you can download here. It has some starter tabs to get started: a resolution dashboard, daily habit tracker, and weekly review template. Following these templates, you could add a monthly deep dive, or even more detailed activity logs. Resolution dashboardThe resolution dashboard is your command center, providing an at-a-glance view of all goals. My sample columns include: Resolution Name: Be specific. Your goal may be to "get healthy," but somewhere you need to write down a specific action item, like "complete 150 workouts this year." Category: Physical, Professional, Financial, Personal, Social, Creative. Target Metric: The number you're chasing (150 workouts, 24 books, $10,000 saved). Current Progress: Updated weekly with your actual numbers. Completion %: A simple formula dividing current by target, if applicable. Weekly Average Needed: Calculates how much you need to do weekly to hit your annual goal. Status: On Track (green), At Risk (yellow), Behind (red)—use conditional formatting. For example, if your resolution is "Read 24 books this year" and you're in week 15 with 8 books completed, your completion percentage is 33%, you're reading 0.53 books per week, and you need 0.43 books weekly to finish on time. The status would show green because you're ahead of pace. Daily habit trackerThis is where consistency lives. For 2026, I start my timeline on Jan. 5, since it's the first Monday of the new year. In a grid with dates across the top, I have daily habits going down the left side. Each habit gets a row where you mark completion with an X, checkmark, or the actual number achieved. Daily habits should be small and specific: "10 minutes meditation," "2 liters of water," "no phone before 9am," "practice Spanish for 15 minutes," "write 250 words." Don't track more than 5-7 habits here—this is about sustainable daily practices, not overwhelming yourself. Use color coding: green for completed, red for missed, yellow for partial completion. At the end of each row, you could create columns for weekly streaks, longest streak this year, and completion percentage. These metrics gamify the process and make patterns visible. If you notice you always miss meditation on Wednesdays, you can investigate why and adjust. Weekly review templateEvery Sunday, spend 10 minutes completing this structured reflection: Wins This Week: List 3-5 specific accomplishments, no matter how small. "Worked out Monday and Thursday" counts. "Saved $50 by cooking instead of ordering out" counts. This section fights the negativity bias that makes us forget progress. Challenges Faced: What obstacles came up? "Too tired after work for gym" or "Got distracted by social media during writing time." Be honest and specific. Pattern Recognition: After a few weeks, you'll notice trends. "I always skip workouts when I have early meetings—need to switch to evening gym sessions." These insights are gold. Adjustments for Next Week: Based on challenges and patterns, what will you change? Maybe you'll prep gym clothes the night before, or set a social media blocker during writing hours. Energy and Motivation Level (1-10): Track your overall state. If you notice motivation plummeting, you can proactively adjust expectations or seek support before completely derailing. Beyond these three main tabs, I've also included even simpler activity trackers with the drop-down menus and color-coding I personally use to track my travel, books read, and running. How to maximize your spreadsheetYou can dedicate a column in each tab for jotting down miscellaneous notes, but for the sake of tidiness, make sure not to overfill your boxes with text. It also helps to stay consistent with your formatting—e.g. bolding the header of each metric. I color code at whim. For instance, as a stand-up comedian, I keep track of all my shows with a specific color to mark how I felt about them: Shades of green mean the show went well, and shades of red mean the show...did not go well. In times where it looks like everything in my life is red, it’s nice to be able to shift my gaze to all the green, too. Perspective! I recommend getting started with just one sheet: a weekly habit tracker for 3-4 habits you genuinely want to build. Commit to tracking honestly for four weeks without judgment. At the end of the month, review your completion rates and patterns. This low-stakes beginning helps you learn the rhythm without overwhelming yourself. At the end of the year, you’ll be able to use all that data to visualize both the big and the little things in your life over the 12 months prior. At a glance, you’ll be able to pat yourself on the back for how successfully you cut back on caffeine, or upped your time outdoors, or improved your books-started to books-completed ratio. Ultimately, my own spreadsheet is about appreciating all the little things in my life, even if I do so in one of the nerdiest ways imaginable. View the full article

A reader writes: Two years ago, I began managing Craig, who had been doing the same tasks day in and out for a decade. He hadn’t adapted to new technology, best practices, or industry trends. My first order of business was to coach him and challenge him to grow and learn. For more than a year, we built up a great trajectory. People saw how much his work improved and commented on it frequently, and said he seemed revitalized in many ways. His progress gave me a lot of hope that he could become good at the modern demands of his role. Then about six months ago, Craig suddenly reverted to his old patterns. It was as if the prior year of progress got completely wiped out. Only this time around, he hasn’t been able to step up they way he did last year — even though we both know he’s fully capable, having done this all before. Recently he has started calling in sick the day after receiving even the mildest negative feedback. If a project goes off the rails or has to be delayed, we work the problem until it’s solved and later debrief about what went wrong. During the debriefs, I let Craig take the lead and I ask open-ended questions. I’m careful to keep it factual and focused on learning for next time. He assesses his work honestly and takes appropriate responsibility for missteps. Then the very next morning, he calls in sick. When he does return to work, he’s quiet and withdrawn for a couple days. This has happened three times in the last two months. I should be clear that the missteps are not disasters. There’s no drama. Nobody is angry and nobody points fingers. I’ve let a lot of these things go that I would have otherwise corrected. The problems I do raise are things with an impact on other teams: missed deadlines, not completing something he had committed to, etc. He says all the right things about wanting to improve, but unlike last year, it just hasn’t happened. And now I’m at a loss as to how to help him if he is going to be incapable of coming to work after mistakes. It’s getting to the point where I’m afraid to say anything to him at all. How do I help Craig out of the tailspin or time vortex that has consumed him? I answer this question over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here. The post my employee calls in sick after any negative feedback appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

When you’re looking to get clips for your edits, comprehension of copyright and fair use is fundamental. You might start by exploring platforms like YouTube, where you can search for specific scenes and apply filters to refine your results. It’s additionally worth considering tools for capturing screens or ripping clips from DVDs. Organizing these clips efficiently can save you time later. Nevertheless, you’ll need to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. What’s your next step? Key Takeaways Search for specific scenes or genres on YouTube, utilizing filters to find videos with Creative Commons licenses for legal reuse. Use downloading tools like 4K Video Downloader or browser extensions to retrieve clips efficiently from online sources. Rip clips from DVDs or Blu-rays using software like HandBrake, ensuring compatibility with your editing software. Choose engaging and relevant clips, organizing them into clearly labeled folders for easy access during the editing process. Incorporate royalty-free music and sound effects to enhance your edits while avoiding copyright issues. Understanding Copyright and Fair Use When you’re exploring video edits, comprehending copyright and Fair Use is essential, as these concepts greatly affect your ability to use pre-existing footage legally. Copyright laws protect the creative rights of original works, so unauthorized use can lead to legal consequences. Fair Use allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission for specific purposes like criticism or teaching. Nevertheless, it’s evaluated case by case, considering factors like the purpose of use, the amount taken, and the impact on the original work’s market value. When figuring out how to find clips for edits, always assess whether your usage qualifies as Fair Use. Exploring YouTube for Pre-existing Footage YouTube offers an extensive array of pre-existing footage that can improve your creative edits. To find the right clips, you can use various downloading methods, including browser extensions and dedicated applications, which make the process more efficient. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand copyright considerations and Fair Use guidelines to guarantee you’re using the content legally and ethically. Finding Clips on YouTube How can you effectively find the right clips for your editing projects? YouTube is a treasure trove for pre-existing footage, offering millions of videos across various genres. To learn how to find videos from edits, start by searching for specific scenes or keywords related to your project. Use filters to narrow results by upload date, duration, or content type. When exploring where to find clips for edits, consider checking videos marked with Creative Commons licenses, as these often allow legal reuse. For movie clips for edits, focus on popular film scenes or trailers. Remember to respect copyright restrictions; many videos require permission for use beyond personal projects. This guarantees you stay within legal boundaries as you create your edits. Downloading Methods Explained During searching for clips to improve your editing projects, knowing the right downloading methods can greatly streamline your workflow. You can explore YouTube to find pre-existing footage, as many users upload useful content. To download clips, consider using YouTube downloader websites where you can paste the video URL and download it directly. Alternatively, browser extensions simplify the process, allowing direct downloads from YouTube without traversing to other sites. Applications like 4K Video Downloader likewise offer an easy solution; just paste the share link to grab high-quality clips. Whether you’re figuring out how to get movie clips for edits or looking for a clip download from Twitch, these methods help you find where to get clips for edits efficiently. Copyright Considerations and Fair Use When sourcing clips for your editing projects, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of copyright considerations and the Fair Use doctrine. Adhering to copyright laws is important since unauthorized redistribution of clips can lead to infringement claims. YouTube can be a valuable resource, but always verify the licensing and usage rights of content before downloading. Fair Use allows limited use for commentary, criticism, or educational purposes. Users often upload specific scenes, making it easier to find desired footage. Employ downloader applications like 4K Video Downloader to simplify the process. Understanding these elements can help you navigate the intricacies of copyright as you ensure that your edits remain compliant and legally sound. Utilizing Screen Capture Software Utilizing screen capture software can greatly boost your ability to gather clips for editing, especially when you need footage from various online sources. This software allows you to record video footage directly from your computer screen, making it versatile for capturing content from streaming services and video platforms. Programs like QuickTime and OBS Studio offer customizable recording areas, letting you focus on specific sections or entire applications. For high-quality screen captures, select software that can record at various resolutions to maintain clarity and detail. Furthermore, consider the audio capture options, as capturing both video and audio improves the quality and context of the clips you obtain. Just remember to check the terms of service for any platform you use. Ripping Clips From Physical Media Ripping clips from physical media, like DVDs and Blu-rays, offers a practical way to access content for your editing projects. To get started, you’ll need the right tools and knowledge about copyright laws to guarantee compliance. Here are some fundamentals: A disc drive that reads DVDs or Blu-rays, with external options available if necessary. Ripping software like HandBrake or MakeMKV, which helps extract specific chapters or segments. Conversion tools, such as Adobe Media Encoder, to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. Direct File Downloads for Editing When you’re looking to streamline your editing process, direct file downloads can be a transformative element. Numerous platforms offer high-quality footage ready for immediate download, but it’s essential to pay attention to the file formats to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. Finding Download Sources How do you find reliable sources for direct file downloads when you need video clips for editing? Start by exploring reputable websites that offer free stock video downloads. These platforms provide a range of clips for edits that suit various projects. Here are some reliable sources to evaluate: Pixabay: Features a vast library of free stock videos. Motion Array: Offers high-quality clips and templates for editing. Pexels: Provides a diverse selection of free video footage. Ensure you check the licensing agreements for each clip to comply with copyright laws. File Format Considerations Comprehending the right file formats is crucial for efficient video editing, especially since using incompatible formats can delay your workflow. When you’re downloading clips for your edits, make certain they’re in formats compatible with your editing software, like MP4, MOV, or AVI. This will save you time and prevent potential conversion issues later. If you encounter any files that need conversion, tools like Adobe Media Encoder can help you adjust them to your desired format. Furthermore, always check the licensing and copyright status of the clips to guarantee compliance with Fair Use regulations. Finally, organizing your downloaded clips into clearly labeled folders can streamline your editing process, making it easier to use your twitch clip editor effectively. Best Practices for Selecting Quality Clips Selecting quality clips for your video edits requires a strategic approach, as the right footage greatly impacts viewer engagement and retention. To amplify the effectiveness of your edits, consider these best practices: Choose engaging clips that resonate with your target audience, boosting both retention and appeal. Utilize reputable stock video platforms like Pixabay, Motion Array, and Coverr for a diverse selection of quality clips that match your theme. Trim clips for conciseness, focusing on the strongest parts and removing any irrelevant content to improve pacing. Integrating Music and Sound Effects When you’re creating a video, integrating music and sound effects is vital for improving the overall impact of your project. Selecting the right music is important; upbeat tracks can boost excitement, whereas calmer melodies can establish a serene atmosphere. Sound effects, when used judiciously, add depth and urgency, making the experience more immersive. On the other hand, be careful not to overwhelm your audience. Properly incorporating music can evoke specific emotions, greatly influencing storytelling and viewer engagement. Balance these elements with dialogue and visuals to maintain clarity and keep the audience focused on your narrative. For your projects, consider royalty-free music resources like Motion Array and Coverr, which offer diverse options without copyright concerns, ensuring you improve your video effectively. Importance of Engaging Footage Engaging footage plays a pivotal role in capturing your audience’s attention, as it greatly improves the storytelling aspect of your video project. High-quality clips not only boost viewer retention but additionally make your content more memorable and impactful. Choosing footage that resonates with your intended audience is crucial, ensuring it aligns with their interests and expectations. Dynamic visuals can raise your production value, making your video more appealing and professional. Well-chosen clips complement your narrative, reinforcing key messages throughout. Utilizing diverse footage helps maintain viewer interest, keeping them engaged from start to finish. Adding Captions for Accessibility Adding captions to your videos not just makes them accessible for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, but it furthermore improves comprehension for those in noisy environments or non-native speakers. Captions can boost engagement and retention, as research shows that viewers tend to watch captioned content longer. Benefits of Captions Captions serve as a fundamental tool for improving accessibility, especially for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to fully engage with video content. They provide numerous benefits that go beyond just accessibility: Captions improve comprehension of dialogue, particularly in noisy environments or for non-native speakers. Research shows that videos with captions can lead to a 40% increase in viewer engagement and retention rates, making your content more effective. Including captions can boost SEO for videos, as search engines can index the text, increasing discoverability. Captioning Techniques Effective captioning techniques are vital for making video content accessible to all viewers. By adding captions, you improve accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, guaranteeing they can follow the dialogue and key messages. Captions additionally benefit viewers in silent environments, enhancing their comprehension of the content. To maximize viewer engagement and retention, use accurate and synchronized captions that provide context to the visuals. Implementing captioning not only assists in comprehension but likewise boosts your video’s SEO, making it more discoverable on platforms like YouTube. Although various tools and software exist, it’s important to prioritize quality and accuracy, whether using automatic caption generators or manual services, to guarantee that your captions effectively serve their purpose. Tools for Captioning In relation to making your video content accessible, utilizing the right tools for captioning can greatly improve viewer engagement. Adding captions not just aids those who are deaf or hard of hearing but additionally improves comprehension for all viewers, especially in silent settings. Here are some effective tools to take into account: CapCut: A user-friendly video editing app that allows you to easily add and edit captions. YouTube‘s Automatic Captioning: A convenient feature that generates captions automatically, which you can fine-tune for accuracy. Amara: A collaborative platform designed for creating and managing captions, perfect for team projects. When you create captions, make sure they sync well with the audio and are displayed long enough for comfortable reading. This practice can furthermore improve SEO, boosting your video’s visibility. Trimming Clips for Better Flow When you’re editing video clips, trimming them effectively is crucial for maintaining a smooth flow that keeps viewers engaged. Start by identifying the strongest segments of each clip, focusing on key storytelling elements that drive your narrative. Removing unnecessary pauses or irrelevant moments can greatly improve pacing, making sure viewers stay connected throughout the video. Aim for concise clips that directly contribute to the story, as this boosts viewer retention and satisfaction. Utilize editing software features, like the razor tool, to make precise cuts and create seamless shifts. Regularly review your trimmed footage to confirm smooth shifts and verify that the content aligns with your intended message and tone. Effective trimming eventually raises the quality of your edits. Using Jump Cuts Effectively Jump cuts serve as a strong editing technique that can boost the storytelling in your videos, especially when applied thoughtfully. They effectively emphasize key moments by cutting out unnecessary pauses and irrelevant content, keeping viewers engaged. Nevertheless, use jump cuts sparingly to avoid distracting the audience. Identify compelling segments of footage that advance your narrative. Improve pacing to create a dynamic, energetic feel, particularly in fast-paced scenes. Incorporate sound effects with jump cuts to amplify shifts, adding depth and urgency. Recommended Tools for Video Editing Choosing the right tools for video editing can greatly improve your workflow and the quality of your final product. For a robust editing experience, CapCut Desktop Video Editor is excellent on both Mac and Windows, offering a user-friendly interface and access to HD stock footage. Motion Array provides a vast collection of free, high-definition clips and royalty-free music, but requires an account for full access. Pixabay is another great resource for free stock videos, with a searchable library. VidsPlay regularly updates its collection of royalty-free footage, making navigation easy. If you need to extract clips from existing media, tools like 4K Video Downloader and screen recording software like Quicktime can simplify the process effectively. Frequently Asked Questions How Do You Get Clips From Youtube for Edits? To get clips from YouTube for your edits, you can use video downloader websites. Simply paste the video URL, and select the portion you want. Conversely, browser extensions can facilitate direct downloads without leaving the page. Software like 4K Video Downloader lets you copy the share link and choose quality settings. Always check copyright laws and YouTube’s policies to confirm you’re using clips legally, especially regarding Fair Use guidelines for educational content. How to Get Clips for Edits Anime? To get clips for your anime edits, start by using screen recording software to capture footage from streaming services, but be aware of their recording restrictions. You can likewise explore platforms like YouTube for user-uploaded clips, which can be downloaded with appropriate tools. For high-quality footage, consider ripping scenes from DVDs or Blu-rays you legally own. Always adhere to copyright laws and Fair Use guidelines to guarantee your edits remain compliant. How to Get Clips for an Edit on Capcut? To get clips for your edits on CapCut, you can explore its built-in library of free stock videos, which provides a variety of HD clips. You can likewise import your own videos by dragging and dropping them into the project interface or using the import option. Furthermore, CapCut allows connections to stock video platforms. If needed, you can capture clips from online sources, but make certain you follow copyright regulations during the process. Where Can I Find Footage for Editing? You can find footage for editing in several ways. YouTube is a great resource, allowing you to use downloader apps like 4K Video Downloader. Screen capture software, such as Quicktime, lets you record streaming content. If you own DVDs or Blu-rays, specialized software can help you rip footage. Furthermore, websites like Pixabay and Motion Array offer free stock clips, whereas direct downloads from online platforms provide quick access, often needing conversion for compatibility. Conclusion In summary, acquiring clips for your edits involves a variety of methods. You can explore platforms like YouTube for licensed footage, utilize screen capture software, or rip clips from DVDs. Furthermore, direct downloads can provide high-quality content. Remember to add captions for accessibility and trim clips to improve flow. By employing these strategies and the right tools, you’ll effectively gather the necessary footage to create compelling edits as you respect copyright laws and ensure a smooth editing process. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How Do You Get Clips for Your Edits?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When you’re looking to get clips for your edits, comprehension of copyright and fair use is fundamental. You might start by exploring platforms like YouTube, where you can search for specific scenes and apply filters to refine your results. It’s additionally worth considering tools for capturing screens or ripping clips from DVDs. Organizing these clips efficiently can save you time later. Nevertheless, you’ll need to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. What’s your next step? Key Takeaways Search for specific scenes or genres on YouTube, utilizing filters to find videos with Creative Commons licenses for legal reuse. Use downloading tools like 4K Video Downloader or browser extensions to retrieve clips efficiently from online sources. Rip clips from DVDs or Blu-rays using software like HandBrake, ensuring compatibility with your editing software. Choose engaging and relevant clips, organizing them into clearly labeled folders for easy access during the editing process. Incorporate royalty-free music and sound effects to enhance your edits while avoiding copyright issues. Understanding Copyright and Fair Use When you’re exploring video edits, comprehending copyright and Fair Use is essential, as these concepts greatly affect your ability to use pre-existing footage legally. Copyright laws protect the creative rights of original works, so unauthorized use can lead to legal consequences. Fair Use allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission for specific purposes like criticism or teaching. Nevertheless, it’s evaluated case by case, considering factors like the purpose of use, the amount taken, and the impact on the original work’s market value. When figuring out how to find clips for edits, always assess whether your usage qualifies as Fair Use. Exploring YouTube for Pre-existing Footage YouTube offers an extensive array of pre-existing footage that can improve your creative edits. To find the right clips, you can use various downloading methods, including browser extensions and dedicated applications, which make the process more efficient. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand copyright considerations and Fair Use guidelines to guarantee you’re using the content legally and ethically. Finding Clips on YouTube How can you effectively find the right clips for your editing projects? YouTube is a treasure trove for pre-existing footage, offering millions of videos across various genres. To learn how to find videos from edits, start by searching for specific scenes or keywords related to your project. Use filters to narrow results by upload date, duration, or content type. When exploring where to find clips for edits, consider checking videos marked with Creative Commons licenses, as these often allow legal reuse. For movie clips for edits, focus on popular film scenes or trailers. Remember to respect copyright restrictions; many videos require permission for use beyond personal projects. This guarantees you stay within legal boundaries as you create your edits. Downloading Methods Explained During searching for clips to improve your editing projects, knowing the right downloading methods can greatly streamline your workflow. You can explore YouTube to find pre-existing footage, as many users upload useful content. To download clips, consider using YouTube downloader websites where you can paste the video URL and download it directly. Alternatively, browser extensions simplify the process, allowing direct downloads from YouTube without traversing to other sites. Applications like 4K Video Downloader likewise offer an easy solution; just paste the share link to grab high-quality clips. Whether you’re figuring out how to get movie clips for edits or looking for a clip download from Twitch, these methods help you find where to get clips for edits efficiently. Copyright Considerations and Fair Use When sourcing clips for your editing projects, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of copyright considerations and the Fair Use doctrine. Adhering to copyright laws is important since unauthorized redistribution of clips can lead to infringement claims. YouTube can be a valuable resource, but always verify the licensing and usage rights of content before downloading. Fair Use allows limited use for commentary, criticism, or educational purposes. Users often upload specific scenes, making it easier to find desired footage. Employ downloader applications like 4K Video Downloader to simplify the process. Understanding these elements can help you navigate the intricacies of copyright as you ensure that your edits remain compliant and legally sound. Utilizing Screen Capture Software Utilizing screen capture software can greatly boost your ability to gather clips for editing, especially when you need footage from various online sources. This software allows you to record video footage directly from your computer screen, making it versatile for capturing content from streaming services and video platforms. Programs like QuickTime and OBS Studio offer customizable recording areas, letting you focus on specific sections or entire applications. For high-quality screen captures, select software that can record at various resolutions to maintain clarity and detail. Furthermore, consider the audio capture options, as capturing both video and audio improves the quality and context of the clips you obtain. Just remember to check the terms of service for any platform you use. Ripping Clips From Physical Media Ripping clips from physical media, like DVDs and Blu-rays, offers a practical way to access content for your editing projects. To get started, you’ll need the right tools and knowledge about copyright laws to guarantee compliance. Here are some fundamentals: A disc drive that reads DVDs or Blu-rays, with external options available if necessary. Ripping software like HandBrake or MakeMKV, which helps extract specific chapters or segments. Conversion tools, such as Adobe Media Encoder, to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. Direct File Downloads for Editing When you’re looking to streamline your editing process, direct file downloads can be a transformative element. Numerous platforms offer high-quality footage ready for immediate download, but it’s essential to pay attention to the file formats to guarantee compatibility with your editing software. Finding Download Sources How do you find reliable sources for direct file downloads when you need video clips for editing? Start by exploring reputable websites that offer free stock video downloads. These platforms provide a range of clips for edits that suit various projects. Here are some reliable sources to evaluate: Pixabay: Features a vast library of free stock videos. Motion Array: Offers high-quality clips and templates for editing. Pexels: Provides a diverse selection of free video footage. Ensure you check the licensing agreements for each clip to comply with copyright laws. File Format Considerations Comprehending the right file formats is crucial for efficient video editing, especially since using incompatible formats can delay your workflow. When you’re downloading clips for your edits, make certain they’re in formats compatible with your editing software, like MP4, MOV, or AVI. This will save you time and prevent potential conversion issues later. If you encounter any files that need conversion, tools like Adobe Media Encoder can help you adjust them to your desired format. Furthermore, always check the licensing and copyright status of the clips to guarantee compliance with Fair Use regulations. Finally, organizing your downloaded clips into clearly labeled folders can streamline your editing process, making it easier to use your twitch clip editor effectively. Best Practices for Selecting Quality Clips Selecting quality clips for your video edits requires a strategic approach, as the right footage greatly impacts viewer engagement and retention. To amplify the effectiveness of your edits, consider these best practices: Choose engaging clips that resonate with your target audience, boosting both retention and appeal. Utilize reputable stock video platforms like Pixabay, Motion Array, and Coverr for a diverse selection of quality clips that match your theme. Trim clips for conciseness, focusing on the strongest parts and removing any irrelevant content to improve pacing. Integrating Music and Sound Effects When you’re creating a video, integrating music and sound effects is vital for improving the overall impact of your project. Selecting the right music is important; upbeat tracks can boost excitement, whereas calmer melodies can establish a serene atmosphere. Sound effects, when used judiciously, add depth and urgency, making the experience more immersive. On the other hand, be careful not to overwhelm your audience. Properly incorporating music can evoke specific emotions, greatly influencing storytelling and viewer engagement. Balance these elements with dialogue and visuals to maintain clarity and keep the audience focused on your narrative. For your projects, consider royalty-free music resources like Motion Array and Coverr, which offer diverse options without copyright concerns, ensuring you improve your video effectively. Importance of Engaging Footage Engaging footage plays a pivotal role in capturing your audience’s attention, as it greatly improves the storytelling aspect of your video project. High-quality clips not only boost viewer retention but additionally make your content more memorable and impactful. Choosing footage that resonates with your intended audience is crucial, ensuring it aligns with their interests and expectations. Dynamic visuals can raise your production value, making your video more appealing and professional. Well-chosen clips complement your narrative, reinforcing key messages throughout. Utilizing diverse footage helps maintain viewer interest, keeping them engaged from start to finish. Adding Captions for Accessibility Adding captions to your videos not just makes them accessible for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, but it furthermore improves comprehension for those in noisy environments or non-native speakers. Captions can boost engagement and retention, as research shows that viewers tend to watch captioned content longer. Benefits of Captions Captions serve as a fundamental tool for improving accessibility, especially for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to fully engage with video content. They provide numerous benefits that go beyond just accessibility: Captions improve comprehension of dialogue, particularly in noisy environments or for non-native speakers. Research shows that videos with captions can lead to a 40% increase in viewer engagement and retention rates, making your content more effective. Including captions can boost SEO for videos, as search engines can index the text, increasing discoverability. Captioning Techniques Effective captioning techniques are vital for making video content accessible to all viewers. By adding captions, you improve accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, guaranteeing they can follow the dialogue and key messages. Captions additionally benefit viewers in silent environments, enhancing their comprehension of the content. To maximize viewer engagement and retention, use accurate and synchronized captions that provide context to the visuals. Implementing captioning not only assists in comprehension but likewise boosts your video’s SEO, making it more discoverable on platforms like YouTube. Although various tools and software exist, it’s important to prioritize quality and accuracy, whether using automatic caption generators or manual services, to guarantee that your captions effectively serve their purpose. Tools for Captioning In relation to making your video content accessible, utilizing the right tools for captioning can greatly improve viewer engagement. Adding captions not just aids those who are deaf or hard of hearing but additionally improves comprehension for all viewers, especially in silent settings. Here are some effective tools to take into account: CapCut: A user-friendly video editing app that allows you to easily add and edit captions. YouTube‘s Automatic Captioning: A convenient feature that generates captions automatically, which you can fine-tune for accuracy. Amara: A collaborative platform designed for creating and managing captions, perfect for team projects. When you create captions, make sure they sync well with the audio and are displayed long enough for comfortable reading. This practice can furthermore improve SEO, boosting your video’s visibility. Trimming Clips for Better Flow When you’re editing video clips, trimming them effectively is crucial for maintaining a smooth flow that keeps viewers engaged. Start by identifying the strongest segments of each clip, focusing on key storytelling elements that drive your narrative. Removing unnecessary pauses or irrelevant moments can greatly improve pacing, making sure viewers stay connected throughout the video. Aim for concise clips that directly contribute to the story, as this boosts viewer retention and satisfaction. Utilize editing software features, like the razor tool, to make precise cuts and create seamless shifts. Regularly review your trimmed footage to confirm smooth shifts and verify that the content aligns with your intended message and tone. Effective trimming eventually raises the quality of your edits. Using Jump Cuts Effectively Jump cuts serve as a strong editing technique that can boost the storytelling in your videos, especially when applied thoughtfully. They effectively emphasize key moments by cutting out unnecessary pauses and irrelevant content, keeping viewers engaged. Nevertheless, use jump cuts sparingly to avoid distracting the audience. Identify compelling segments of footage that advance your narrative. Improve pacing to create a dynamic, energetic feel, particularly in fast-paced scenes. Incorporate sound effects with jump cuts to amplify shifts, adding depth and urgency. Recommended Tools for Video Editing Choosing the right tools for video editing can greatly improve your workflow and the quality of your final product. For a robust editing experience, CapCut Desktop Video Editor is excellent on both Mac and Windows, offering a user-friendly interface and access to HD stock footage. Motion Array provides a vast collection of free, high-definition clips and royalty-free music, but requires an account for full access. Pixabay is another great resource for free stock videos, with a searchable library. VidsPlay regularly updates its collection of royalty-free footage, making navigation easy. If you need to extract clips from existing media, tools like 4K Video Downloader and screen recording software like Quicktime can simplify the process effectively. Frequently Asked Questions How Do You Get Clips From Youtube for Edits? To get clips from YouTube for your edits, you can use video downloader websites. Simply paste the video URL, and select the portion you want. Conversely, browser extensions can facilitate direct downloads without leaving the page. Software like 4K Video Downloader lets you copy the share link and choose quality settings. Always check copyright laws and YouTube’s policies to confirm you’re using clips legally, especially regarding Fair Use guidelines for educational content. How to Get Clips for Edits Anime? To get clips for your anime edits, start by using screen recording software to capture footage from streaming services, but be aware of their recording restrictions. You can likewise explore platforms like YouTube for user-uploaded clips, which can be downloaded with appropriate tools. For high-quality footage, consider ripping scenes from DVDs or Blu-rays you legally own. Always adhere to copyright laws and Fair Use guidelines to guarantee your edits remain compliant. How to Get Clips for an Edit on Capcut? To get clips for your edits on CapCut, you can explore its built-in library of free stock videos, which provides a variety of HD clips. You can likewise import your own videos by dragging and dropping them into the project interface or using the import option. Furthermore, CapCut allows connections to stock video platforms. If needed, you can capture clips from online sources, but make certain you follow copyright regulations during the process. Where Can I Find Footage for Editing? You can find footage for editing in several ways. YouTube is a great resource, allowing you to use downloader apps like 4K Video Downloader. Screen capture software, such as Quicktime, lets you record streaming content. If you own DVDs or Blu-rays, specialized software can help you rip footage. Furthermore, websites like Pixabay and Motion Array offer free stock clips, whereas direct downloads from online platforms provide quick access, often needing conversion for compatibility. Conclusion In summary, acquiring clips for your edits involves a variety of methods. You can explore platforms like YouTube for licensed footage, utilize screen capture software, or rip clips from DVDs. Furthermore, direct downloads can provide high-quality content. Remember to add captions for accessibility and trim clips to improve flow. By employing these strategies and the right tools, you’ll effectively gather the necessary footage to create compelling edits as you respect copyright laws and ensure a smooth editing process. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How Do You Get Clips for Your Edits?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Navigating the internet can often feel overwhelming, especially for small business owners who juggle numerous responsibilities and tasks daily. Google’s latest innovation, Disco, featuring GenTabs, aims to address this issue head-on by reimagining how we browse and interact online. Disco is described as a groundbreaking “Disco” very vehicle designed to enhance the web experience, making it easier and faster for users to engage in tasks that often require juggling multiple tabs. As the digital landscape becomes increasingly complex, even seasoned entrepreneurs feel the burden of managing information efficiently. With GenTabs, users can take a giant leap forward in productivity. GenTabs is built upon Google’s advanced Gemini 3 model, lending it a competitive edge in understanding user needs. By proactively analyzing open tabs and chat history, GenTabs generates interactive web applications tailored for specific tasks. This means small business owners can state what tools they need through simple natural language and receive custom solutions without needing to know how to code. Small business owners often find themselves planning logistics, researching new technologies, or exploring marketing strategies—all activities that can lead to countless open tabs. GenTabs simplifies this process by suggesting generative apps relevant to the tasks at hand, sometimes even proposing ideas that the user might not have initially considered. This proactive assistance could lead to substantial time savings and improved focus, allowing business owners to concentrate on critical decision-making rather than getting lost in a sea of information. While the potential benefits are notable, small business owners should also weigh some considerations. Adopting new technologies comes with challenges, such as the learning curve associated with new tools. Understanding how to leverage GenTabs may require some experimentation, which could temporarily disrupt established workflows. Additionally, reliance on AI-generated apps raises questions about data privacy and control over the output. Small business owners will want to ensure that their data remains secure and that they retain oversight over generated content. For many in the small business arena, the potential to streamline operations using GenTabs could outweigh the initial hurdles. The promise of creating customized web applications tailored to specific business needs is enticing. Imagine being able to whip up a project planning tool, a sales tracker, or a basic customer relationship management (CRM) interface by merely describing what you require. This capability not only empowers employees but could also foster an innovative culture within small enterprises. Quotes from Google’s announcement underscore the initiative’s ambitious aim. “Disco will help us learn faster and work together with AI enthusiasts to shape the future of web browsing,” suggesting a collaborative approach to digital transformation. This highlights the importance of community and shared learning as more businesses adapt to using AI-driven solutions. As small business owners consider integrating GenTabs into their workflow, it’s wise to remain vigilant about potential pitfalls while remaining open to the new possibilities that such tools can offer. There’s little doubt that innovations like Disco could well mark a pivotal moment in how businesses manage tasks online, shifting from traditional methods of browsing to a more fluid, AI-supported model. In essence, Google’s GenTabs could serve as a practical ally in the quest for operational excellence among small businesses. By offering personalized, approachable solutions to web navigation and task management, this tool might just change the way entrepreneurs tackle their daily challenges and not only simplify operations but also inspire creative solutions for growth and efficiency. For more information, visit the original announcement on the Google Blog. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Google Chrome Unveils Disco: A Smarter Way to Navigate the Web" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Navigating the internet can often feel overwhelming, especially for small business owners who juggle numerous responsibilities and tasks daily. Google’s latest innovation, Disco, featuring GenTabs, aims to address this issue head-on by reimagining how we browse and interact online. Disco is described as a groundbreaking “Disco” very vehicle designed to enhance the web experience, making it easier and faster for users to engage in tasks that often require juggling multiple tabs. As the digital landscape becomes increasingly complex, even seasoned entrepreneurs feel the burden of managing information efficiently. With GenTabs, users can take a giant leap forward in productivity. GenTabs is built upon Google’s advanced Gemini 3 model, lending it a competitive edge in understanding user needs. By proactively analyzing open tabs and chat history, GenTabs generates interactive web applications tailored for specific tasks. This means small business owners can state what tools they need through simple natural language and receive custom solutions without needing to know how to code. Small business owners often find themselves planning logistics, researching new technologies, or exploring marketing strategies—all activities that can lead to countless open tabs. GenTabs simplifies this process by suggesting generative apps relevant to the tasks at hand, sometimes even proposing ideas that the user might not have initially considered. This proactive assistance could lead to substantial time savings and improved focus, allowing business owners to concentrate on critical decision-making rather than getting lost in a sea of information. While the potential benefits are notable, small business owners should also weigh some considerations. Adopting new technologies comes with challenges, such as the learning curve associated with new tools. Understanding how to leverage GenTabs may require some experimentation, which could temporarily disrupt established workflows. Additionally, reliance on AI-generated apps raises questions about data privacy and control over the output. Small business owners will want to ensure that their data remains secure and that they retain oversight over generated content. For many in the small business arena, the potential to streamline operations using GenTabs could outweigh the initial hurdles. The promise of creating customized web applications tailored to specific business needs is enticing. Imagine being able to whip up a project planning tool, a sales tracker, or a basic customer relationship management (CRM) interface by merely describing what you require. This capability not only empowers employees but could also foster an innovative culture within small enterprises. Quotes from Google’s announcement underscore the initiative’s ambitious aim. “Disco will help us learn faster and work together with AI enthusiasts to shape the future of web browsing,” suggesting a collaborative approach to digital transformation. This highlights the importance of community and shared learning as more businesses adapt to using AI-driven solutions. As small business owners consider integrating GenTabs into their workflow, it’s wise to remain vigilant about potential pitfalls while remaining open to the new possibilities that such tools can offer. There’s little doubt that innovations like Disco could well mark a pivotal moment in how businesses manage tasks online, shifting from traditional methods of browsing to a more fluid, AI-supported model. In essence, Google’s GenTabs could serve as a practical ally in the quest for operational excellence among small businesses. By offering personalized, approachable solutions to web navigation and task management, this tool might just change the way entrepreneurs tackle their daily challenges and not only simplify operations but also inspire creative solutions for growth and efficiency. For more information, visit the original announcement on the Google Blog. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Google Chrome Unveils Disco: A Smarter Way to Navigate the Web" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Landmark Employment Rights bill heads for statute booksView the full article

Google rapidly expanded AI Overviews in search during 2025, then pulled back as they moved into commercial and navigational queries. These findings are based on a new Semrush analysis of more than 10 million keywords from January to November. AI Overviews surged, then retreated. Google didn’t roll out AI Overviews in a straight line in 2025. A mid-year spike gave way to a pullback, suggesting Google moved fast to test the feature, then eased off based on user data: January: 6.5% of queries triggered an AI Overview July: AI Overview visibility peaked, appearing in just under 25% of queries. November: Coverage fell back to less than 16% of queries. Zero-click behavior defied expectations. Surprisingly, click-through rates for keywords with AI Overviews have steadily risen since January. AI Overviews don’t automatically reduce clicks and may even encourage them. AI Overviews still appear more often on searches that already tend to drive no clicks. But when Semrush compared the same keywords before and after an AI Overview appeared, zero-click rates fell from 33.75% to 31.53%. Informational queries no longer dominate. Early 2025 AI Overviews were almost entirely informational: January: 91% informational October: 57% informational Now, AI Overviews are appearing for commercial and transactional queries: Commercial queries: Increased from 8% to 18% Transactional queries: Increased from 2% to 14% Navigational queries are rising fast. In an unexpected shift, AI summaries are increasingly intercepting brand and destination searches: Navigational AI Overviews grew from under 1% in January to more than 10% by November. Google Ads + AI Overviews. Earlier this year, ads rarely appeared next to AI Overviews. Now they’re common: Ads alongside AI Overviews rose from about 3% in January to roughly 40% by November. Ads show at the bottom of around 25% of AI Overview SERPs. Science is the most impacted industry. By keyword saturation, Science leads all verticals for AI Overviews at 25.96%. Computers & Electronics follows at 17.92%, with People & Society close behind at 17.29%. Since March, Food & Drink has seen the fastest growth in AI Overviews of any category. Meanwhile, Real Estate, Shopping, and Arts & Entertainment remain lightly affected, with AI Overviews appearing on fewer than 3% of keywords. Why we care. AI Overviews are unevenly and persistently reshaping click behavior, commercial visibility, and ad placement. Volatility is likely to continue, so closely monitor performance shifts tied to AI Overviews. The report. Semrush AI Overviews Study: What 2025 SEO Data Tells Us About Google’s Search Shift Dig deeper. In May, I reported on the original version of Semrush’s study in Google AI Overviews now show on 13% of searches: Study. View the full article

Plus 23 issues to negotiate. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

Plus 23 issues to negotiate. By Marc Rosenberg The Rosenberg Practice Management Library Go PRO for members-only access to more Marc Rosenberg. View the full article

China will impose tariffs of up to 19.8% on pork imports from the European Union, a drastic drop from preliminary tariffs of up to 62.4%, its Commerce Ministry said Tuesday. The ministry’s announcement followed an investigation the Chinese side launched into imports of pork from the trading bloc after the EU imposed provisional tariffs on China-made electric vehicles. Beijing also levied anti-dumping duties on European brandy, most notably cognac produced in France, though major brandy producers received exemptions. Imports of dairy products from the EU likewise were subject to anti-dumping probes. The EU runs a massive trade deficit with China: over 300 billion euros ($348 billion) last year. However, the trading bloc is a major exporter of pork and key supplier of byproducts such as ears, snouts, feet, and other items considered to be delicacies in China. In September, China ordered preliminary anti-dumping duties, in the form of security deposits, of 15.6% to 32.7% for pork imports from EU companies that collaborated with the anti-dumping investigation, and up to 62.4% for all others. China’s Commerce Ministry concluded that the EU was dumping pork and pig by-products in China, selling them at prices below production costs or domestic market prices, and harming China’s pork industry. The final tariff rates of 4.9%-19.8% are due to take effect beginning Wednesday and last for five years. Spain, the Netherlands and Denmark will be the most affected. The Commerce Ministry said the new tariff will apply to all kind of pork products, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, pickled, smoked or salted. It said it had reached its conclusions in an “objective, fair and impartial manner.” EU exports of pork products to China peaked at 7.4 billion euros ($7.9 billion) in 2020 when Beijing turned to imports to meet domestic demand after its pig farms were devastated by a swine disease. But it has reduced imports as it has rebuilt its herds. —Elaine Kurtenbach, AP business writer View the full article

Accounting firms are finding themselves in one of two camps. By Scott Moore The Rosenberg Survey Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

Accounting firms are finding themselves in one of two camps. By Scott Moore The Rosenberg Survey Go PRO for members-only access to more CPA Trendlines Research. View the full article

American foreign policy now aims to help rightwing nationalists into power across the continentView the full article

Have you thought about what you’re building? By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

Have you thought about what you’re building? By Martin Bissett Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

We all have goals, but at least some of the difference in achieving those goals comes down to how you frame them. In a study published in PLOS One, the researchers separated participants’ goals into two basic categories: Avoidance goals: stopping or preventing an undesired behavior. “Stop ignoring interpersonal issues between employees.” So is “stop putting off important tasks.” So is “stop watching so much TV.” So is anything you want, or wish, to stop doing or do less often. Approach goals: adopting a new behavior. “Complete the most important task on my to-do list every day.” So is “Compliment at least one employee every day.” So is “Eat at least one serving of vegetables at lunch and dinner.” Why does the difference matter? Compared with people who set avoidance goals, people who set approach goals were significantly more likely to stay the course. Partly that’s because it’s more satisfying to do something you want to do than to avoid something you don’t want to do. For example, for decades I drank a ton of Diet Mountain Dew. When I finally decided I wanted to drink less soda, I set an approach goal: Instead of setting a goal like “Stop drinking Diet Mountain Dew in the morning,” my goal was “Drink water with my protein bar and banana for breakfast.” Later, I extended my water rule to lunch, and dinner, and snacks. The result, of course, was drinking less Diet Mountain Dew. But I wasn’t avoiding soda; I was “approaching” water. The same can be true for any habit you want to change. If you tend to avoid getting involved in interpersonal disputes between employees, don’t say you’ll stop ignoring interpersonal issues. Make it your goal to build a better sense of camaraderie and teamwork, and choose activities or behaviors that support your goal. Maybe you’ll spend a little time each day working in the department where two employees aren’t getting along. Maybe you’ll create situations where people can work together on something positive: A boss of mine once assigned me and an employee I was feuding with to a project with a potentially significant reward, and in the process we quickly ironed out our differences. Just about every avoidance goal can be turned into an approach goal; simply determine the positive behavior or habit that you want to have replace what you want to stop doing, and focus on doing that. If you want to watch less TV, make it your goal to read 20 pages every evening. If you want to spend less time in your office, make it your goal to walk the shop or office floor first thing in the morning. If you want to spend less time on social media, start an activity that makes it hard to engage. (If your goal is to take a walk every night with a partner or friend, and you leave your phones behind, voilà: more actual social time, much less social media.) If you want to stop doing one thing, or do less of it, choose another thing you want or need to do, and make doing that your goal: Do (this), and you’ll naturally have less opportunity to do (that). That’s the beauty of approach goals. Stopping a habit is easier when you don’t have as much time or opportunity to engage in that habit. Besides: It’s a lot more fun to start doing something you really want to do than it is to try to stop doing something you’ve decided you shouldn’t. —Jeff Haden View the full article

Design and prototyping play vital roles in product development by ensuring that both functionality and aesthetics are effectively integrated. Design focuses on creating user-centered solutions, whereas prototyping allows for rapid testing and refinement of ideas. For instance, using wireframes or 3D models can reveal potential flaws before a product launch. Comprehending these processes is fundamental for mitigating risks and enhancing user satisfaction. So, how do these elements interact to promote innovation in the development cycle? Key Takeaways Design merges aesthetics and functionality, enhancing user engagement and attracting customers to products. Prototyping allows early experimentation, identifying flaws and saving costs by preventing late-stage changes. User feedback during prototyping fosters a human-centered approach, improving overall user experience and satisfaction. Utilizing various prototype types accelerates innovation and collaboration within cross-functional teams, leading to better product outcomes. Prototyping acts as a risk management tool, revealing potential issues early and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The Role of Design in Product Development Design plays a vital role in product development, as it merges aesthetics with functionality to create products that not just attract customers but likewise effectively address their needs. Incorporating design and prototyping, the process begins with a human-centered approach, emphasizing empathy for users. This guarantees the final product improves user experience and engagement. You’ll find that prototype characteristics, such as usability and adaptability, are fundamental in refining solutions. Using user experience prototyping tools, you can iterate through cycles of ideation and testing, allowing for valuable feedback. Collaborating within cross-functional teams during this phase promotes innovation, ultimately speeding up the shift from concept to market-ready product. Effective design can greatly impact market success by differentiating offerings and cultivating connections with consumers. Understanding Prototyping and Its Types Prototyping is a fundamental aspect of product development that allows teams to experiment with ideas and refine their concepts before moving to full-scale production. The prototyping process involves defining goals, selecting the appropriate fidelity levels, and iterating designs based on user feedback. There are several types of prototypes, including proof of concept, visual prototypes, working prototypes, and pre-production prototypes, each serving distinct purposes. Low-fidelity prototypes, often made from inexpensive materials like paper, enable quick iterations and early-stage testing. Conversely, high-fidelity prototypes closely resemble the final product, facilitating in-depth user experience prototyping. Effective prototyping encourages collaboration among cross-functional teams, ensuring stakeholder feedback is integrated early, ultimately resulting in improved design solutions and a more successful final product. Benefits of Prototyping in the Development Process The advantages of incorporating prototyping into the development process are numerous and significant. Prototyping meaning extends beyond mere model-making; it refines product design by identifying flaws early, which saves costs linked to late-stage changes. The prototype concept accelerates your time to market by enabling quicker decision-making and feedback loops, giving you a competitive edge. Furthermore, prototypes serve as tangible tools that engage stakeholders and gather user feedback, ensuring the final product aligns with customer needs. By testing materials and validating designs against environmental conditions, prototyping improves product quality and compliance with industry standards, minimizing the risk of recalls. In the end, the benefits of prototyping lead to more innovative and successful final products, making it a crucial part of the development process. Enhancing User Experience Through Prototyping A well-executed prototyping phase greatly improves user experience by allowing for direct observation of how users interact with a product. Through user interface prototyping, you can gather valuable insights into usability, identifying pain points that need addressing. When engaging in ux prototyping, testing prototypes with real users enables iterative refinements, ensuring your final product aligns with user needs and expectations. This process cultivates a user-centered approach, making the prototype ux design more intuitive and engaging. By integrating navigation elements and features based on user feedback, you contribute to a seamless experience. Continuous iteration not just improves functionality but additionally creates memorable digital experiences, ultimately leading to higher user satisfaction and loyalty. Prototyping as a Tool for Risk Management In product development, identifying and mitigating risks early can save time and resources, making it easier to bring a successful product to market. Prototyping serves as a critical tool for risk management by revealing unnoticed issues that could affect user safety or product reliability. Through the stages of prototyping, you can validate your prototype design, ensuring compliance with industry standards before full-scale manufacturing. By simulating real-world conditions, engineering prototypes help identify potential problems early, minimizing uncertainties. This process considerably reduces the chances of costly modifications or product recalls later on. Risk Factor Prototyping Benefit Unnoticed design flaws Early detection and resolution Compliance issues Verification before launch User interaction problems Real-world simulation Frequently Asked Questions Why Is Prototyping Important in Product Development? Prototyping’s essential in product development since it helps you identify design flaws early, saving you from expensive changes later. By creating prototypes, you can gather user feedback, ensuring the final product aligns with user needs. This process encourages collaboration among teams, nurturing a shared vision. Furthermore, rapid iterations allow you to refine concepts quickly, speeding up time to market as you validate assumptions and reduce risks related to compliance and safety. Why Is Creating a Prototype an Important Part of the Design Process? Creating a prototype is essential in the design process since it allows you to test your ideas before committing to full production. By building a prototype, you can identify usability issues early, gather valuable user feedback, and refine your design. This process improves collaboration among team members and stakeholders, facilitating quicker decision-making. Additionally, using different prototype types helps you explore various solutions during the management of resources effectively, ensuring your final product meets user needs and industry standards. What Is the Role of Design in Product Development? Design plays a vital role in product development by ensuring that products aren’t merely functional but additionally visually appealing. You focus on user needs through methods like design thinking, which emphasizes empathy and iterative testing. By creating prototypes, you gather feedback that guides refinements, enhancing usability. Collaboration among cross-functional teams integrates technical and aesthetic considerations, resulting in a product that meets market demands and improves customer satisfaction. What Is Design and Prototyping? Design and prototyping involve creating visual and functional representations of a product before its full-scale production. You start with sketches or models to explore ideas, test usability, and refine aesthetics. This process allows you to identify flaws early on and gather feedback from users. Conclusion In conclusion, design and prototyping are crucial in product development, as they guarantee a balance between aesthetics and functionality. By focusing on user needs, teams can create products that resonate with customers. Prototyping enables rapid testing and iteration, identifying potential issues early in the process. This not just improves user experience but likewise reduces risks associated with product failures. In the end, integrating these practices leads to innovative solutions that meet market demands and uphold quality standards. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is the Importance of Design and Prototyping in Product Development?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Design and prototyping play vital roles in product development by ensuring that both functionality and aesthetics are effectively integrated. Design focuses on creating user-centered solutions, whereas prototyping allows for rapid testing and refinement of ideas. For instance, using wireframes or 3D models can reveal potential flaws before a product launch. Comprehending these processes is fundamental for mitigating risks and enhancing user satisfaction. So, how do these elements interact to promote innovation in the development cycle? Key Takeaways Design merges aesthetics and functionality, enhancing user engagement and attracting customers to products. Prototyping allows early experimentation, identifying flaws and saving costs by preventing late-stage changes. User feedback during prototyping fosters a human-centered approach, improving overall user experience and satisfaction. Utilizing various prototype types accelerates innovation and collaboration within cross-functional teams, leading to better product outcomes. Prototyping acts as a risk management tool, revealing potential issues early and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The Role of Design in Product Development Design plays a vital role in product development, as it merges aesthetics with functionality to create products that not just attract customers but likewise effectively address their needs. Incorporating design and prototyping, the process begins with a human-centered approach, emphasizing empathy for users. This guarantees the final product improves user experience and engagement. You’ll find that prototype characteristics, such as usability and adaptability, are fundamental in refining solutions. Using user experience prototyping tools, you can iterate through cycles of ideation and testing, allowing for valuable feedback. Collaborating within cross-functional teams during this phase promotes innovation, ultimately speeding up the shift from concept to market-ready product. Effective design can greatly impact market success by differentiating offerings and cultivating connections with consumers. Understanding Prototyping and Its Types Prototyping is a fundamental aspect of product development that allows teams to experiment with ideas and refine their concepts before moving to full-scale production. The prototyping process involves defining goals, selecting the appropriate fidelity levels, and iterating designs based on user feedback. There are several types of prototypes, including proof of concept, visual prototypes, working prototypes, and pre-production prototypes, each serving distinct purposes. Low-fidelity prototypes, often made from inexpensive materials like paper, enable quick iterations and early-stage testing. Conversely, high-fidelity prototypes closely resemble the final product, facilitating in-depth user experience prototyping. Effective prototyping encourages collaboration among cross-functional teams, ensuring stakeholder feedback is integrated early, ultimately resulting in improved design solutions and a more successful final product. Benefits of Prototyping in the Development Process The advantages of incorporating prototyping into the development process are numerous and significant. Prototyping meaning extends beyond mere model-making; it refines product design by identifying flaws early, which saves costs linked to late-stage changes. The prototype concept accelerates your time to market by enabling quicker decision-making and feedback loops, giving you a competitive edge. Furthermore, prototypes serve as tangible tools that engage stakeholders and gather user feedback, ensuring the final product aligns with customer needs. By testing materials and validating designs against environmental conditions, prototyping improves product quality and compliance with industry standards, minimizing the risk of recalls. In the end, the benefits of prototyping lead to more innovative and successful final products, making it a crucial part of the development process. Enhancing User Experience Through Prototyping A well-executed prototyping phase greatly improves user experience by allowing for direct observation of how users interact with a product. Through user interface prototyping, you can gather valuable insights into usability, identifying pain points that need addressing. When engaging in ux prototyping, testing prototypes with real users enables iterative refinements, ensuring your final product aligns with user needs and expectations. This process cultivates a user-centered approach, making the prototype ux design more intuitive and engaging. By integrating navigation elements and features based on user feedback, you contribute to a seamless experience. Continuous iteration not just improves functionality but additionally creates memorable digital experiences, ultimately leading to higher user satisfaction and loyalty. Prototyping as a Tool for Risk Management In product development, identifying and mitigating risks early can save time and resources, making it easier to bring a successful product to market. Prototyping serves as a critical tool for risk management by revealing unnoticed issues that could affect user safety or product reliability. Through the stages of prototyping, you can validate your prototype design, ensuring compliance with industry standards before full-scale manufacturing. By simulating real-world conditions, engineering prototypes help identify potential problems early, minimizing uncertainties. This process considerably reduces the chances of costly modifications or product recalls later on. Risk Factor Prototyping Benefit Unnoticed design flaws Early detection and resolution Compliance issues Verification before launch User interaction problems Real-world simulation Frequently Asked Questions Why Is Prototyping Important in Product Development? Prototyping’s essential in product development since it helps you identify design flaws early, saving you from expensive changes later. By creating prototypes, you can gather user feedback, ensuring the final product aligns with user needs. This process encourages collaboration among teams, nurturing a shared vision. Furthermore, rapid iterations allow you to refine concepts quickly, speeding up time to market as you validate assumptions and reduce risks related to compliance and safety. Why Is Creating a Prototype an Important Part of the Design Process? Creating a prototype is essential in the design process since it allows you to test your ideas before committing to full production. By building a prototype, you can identify usability issues early, gather valuable user feedback, and refine your design. This process improves collaboration among team members and stakeholders, facilitating quicker decision-making. Additionally, using different prototype types helps you explore various solutions during the management of resources effectively, ensuring your final product meets user needs and industry standards. What Is the Role of Design in Product Development? Design plays a vital role in product development by ensuring that products aren’t merely functional but additionally visually appealing. You focus on user needs through methods like design thinking, which emphasizes empathy and iterative testing. By creating prototypes, you gather feedback that guides refinements, enhancing usability. Collaboration among cross-functional teams integrates technical and aesthetic considerations, resulting in a product that meets market demands and improves customer satisfaction. What Is Design and Prototyping? Design and prototyping involve creating visual and functional representations of a product before its full-scale production. You start with sketches or models to explore ideas, test usability, and refine aesthetics. This process allows you to identify flaws early on and gather feedback from users. Conclusion In conclusion, design and prototyping are crucial in product development, as they guarantee a balance between aesthetics and functionality. By focusing on user needs, teams can create products that resonate with customers. Prototyping enables rapid testing and iteration, identifying potential issues early in the process. This not just improves user experience but likewise reduces risks associated with product failures. In the end, integrating these practices leads to innovative solutions that meet market demands and uphold quality standards. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is the Importance of Design and Prototyping in Product Development?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article