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Plans to toughen measures against irregular migrants come despite concerns over civil liberties View the full article

European automakers will save around 500-600 million euros ($585-700 million) a month dating back to Aug. 1 after the The President administration implemented the U.S. end of its trade deal with the European Union, the EU’s top trade negotiator said Thursday. Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic said that the deal establishing a 15% tariff on most EU goods took effect with publication in the U.S. Federal Register instructing customs officials what to charge. That would reduce the tariff from a painfully high 27.5% rate set earlier by The President. The reduction eases a major burden on EU automakers and is a chief selling point for the deal as presented by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The deal is retroactive to Aug. 1 so “what we expect now is that the tariffs will be returned to the automakers as of the first of August, which is something like 500, 600 million euros per month,” Sefcovic said ahead of a meeting with Southeast Asian trade ministers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The 15% tariff is still much higher than tariffs from before The President took office, which averaged in the single digits, and the trade deal has been criticized by business associations and some members of the European Parliament. Sefcovic said most member states supported the deal and that after detailed exchanges and presentations on the details he expected lawmakers would support it as well. He said it was “the best deal available” after difficult talks with The President administration officials. “Any other alternative would be much worse,” he said. The President threatened even higher rates during the talks. —Associated Press View the full article

Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding my work at Lifehacker as a preferred source. This fall's Amazon Prime Day—known as "Prime Big Deal Days"—is taking place from Tuesday, Oct. 7 to Wednesday, Oct. 8. Lifehacker's Prime Day expert Daniel Oropeza explains all the details you need to know about the event. As you're scouring for the best deals, one payment option you'll want to reconsider is "buy now, pay later" financing. Last year Apple discontinued its own take on “buy now, pay later” (BNPL), called "Apple Pay Later." The service may no longer be available in name, but BNPL purchases are readily available when you check out with Apple Pay. So, what exactly has changed about paying with installments via Apple Pay, and what sets it apart from other BNPL programs—for better or for worse? What is “buy now, pay later?”A “buy now, pay later” service is exactly what it sounds like: You can make a purchase immediately, and then pay for it through a series of installments over time. Although BNPL has some perks for breaking up a major expense, there are risks involved. Even if these loans have little to no interest, you are still taking on debt. And while BNPL plans don’t directly impact users’ credit scores at the moment, that's set to change. Coming this fall, FICO says it will start including BNPL payment histories in how it calculates credit scores. If you're at risk of not getting your BNPL payments in according to schedule, you'll be putting your credit score at risk, too. Any personal finance writer with a semblance of a conscience will advise against making a habit of using these services. They can be helpful if you really need to finance something big, but whenever possible, it’s best to avoid taking on debt for everyday expenses. How can you pay with installments using Apple Pay?The official "Apple Pay Later" is no more, but Apple Pay still includes BNPL options. Major BNPL providers like Affirm, Afterpay, and Klarna have partnered with Apple to offer their services directly through Apple Pay. How to set up BNPL with Apple PayThe setup process varies slightly depending on your BNPL provider: For Klarna: Download the Klarna app and create an account. Complete the verification process. In the Klarna app, look for the option to add to Apple Wallet. Follow the prompts to add your Klarna card to Apple Pay. For Affirm: Create an Affirm account through their app or website. Get pre-qualified for spending limits, up to $30,000. Add the Affirm virtual card to your Apple Wallet. Use it like any other payment method in Apple Pay. For Afterpay: Download the Afterpay app and set up your account. Link a debit or credit card for your installment payments. Afterpay should pop up directly at checkout when using Apple Pay. When you make a purchase using BNPL through Apple Pay, the total amount is automatically divided into your installment plan. Your first installment is typically charged immediately, while the BNPL company pays the merchant the full amount. All your subsequent installments are automatically charged to your linked payment method according to schedule. The risks of BNPL programsNaturally, Apple users may be drawn to the convenience of a BNPL options during Apple Pay checkout. However, that convenience might just be the biggest risk. They can make it all too easy to spend more than you can actually afford. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau released a report that shows BNPL users were more likely to have higher credit card debt, delinquencies on other credit products, and lower credit scores than non-users. The bottom lineIf you are going to use any BNPL service, keep these tips in mind: Think about your current and future budget. When a bigger payment gets broken down into smaller installments, you might find yourself overspending in the long run because it "feels" like you can afford it. Stay on top of how much you’re actually spending, and how it will impact your overall budget going forward. Stick to the essentials. BNPL should really only be used on completely necessary purchases that you can’t afford upfront, but can afford in six weeks. Keep an eye on your account balance. Klarna, Affirm, or an BNPL service are not credit cards. Even if Apple doesn’t charge fees for missed payments, your bank will still charge you overdraft fees. Plus, if you default on a BNPL loan, you’re at risk of damaging your credit score. The most important thing is that you know what you're doing. Before you pay for anything in installments, be thoughtful about why you’re taking on this debt in the first place. View the full article

The Barclays Center is taking its dressing rooms for touring artists to the next level, and they looked to local inspiration to decorate them. The Brooklyn venue, which hosts concerts and is home to the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and WNBA’s New York Liberty, has upgraded six dressing rooms that now resemble Brooklyn brownstone apartments, complete with moody tones, soft-glow lighting, and high-end fixtures and finishes. The makeover is part of Barclays Center parent company BSE Global’s $100 million, five-year upgrade of the venue that’s still set to include improvements like a new fan zone and a new premium membership club. Laurie Jacoby, BSE Global’s chief entertainment officer, tells Fast Company the plan for the renovations is “to elevate the guest experience at every level, whether you’re a fan attending a concert or game, or an artist bringing your talent to our stage.” It’s especially important for artists, she says. “For touring artists, a dressing room is often their only connection to the city they’re performing in,” Jacoby says. “That’s why we designed our dressing rooms to capture the essence of a Brooklyn brownstone, featuring paneled walls, herringbone floors, warm lighting, and elegant finishes that create a cozy, residential atmosphere—a true home away from home right inside the arena.” BSE Global designed the dressing rooms in partnership with the Brooklyn Home Company, a real estate development and design firm that typically works on condos, townhomes, and vacation homes. The team designed each room to pay homage different Brooklyn neighborhoods around the stadium. Park Slope was inspired by diners and wine bars, Brooklyn Heights by red brick, Prospect by the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, and Boerum Hill by the oxidization of copper. There’s also a classic brownstone-inspired room for Clinton Hill, and a green room with plants to represent Fort Greene. Construction began following the end of the 2024–25 NBA season, and the dressing rooms can seat up to 56 people. BSE Global wants the new Barclays Center to do more than impress rock bands, rappers, DJs, and pop stars. The team also hopes the elevated space will lead to elevated performances. “Our hope is that these new spaces provide comfort and hospitality for artists spending long hours on the road,” Jacoby says. “We know that when performers feel at home and relaxed, they deliver their best performances—which is ultimately a benefit to both fans and the overall experience.” Among the first artists who’ll use the new dressing rooms are Reneé Rapp, who’s bringing her Bite Me Tour to Brooklyn next month, and Tame Impala, who’s playing four nights there. View the full article

We’ve talked about terrible corporate gifts, so now it’s time to talk about great ones. And yes, money and time off are the best gifts, but sometimes you’re going to get something else so let’s hear about what actually worked. Some examples that have been shared here in the past: The best Doctor’s Day gift I ever received was a bobblehead of myself. They took our ID photos and had them made into bobbleheads. It’s hysterical. I love it. My company does a gift select each December that I really like. They work with a local bakery and have a selection of four items to choose from – typically a cheesecake, chocolate cake, quiche, or a fruit basket (this sometimes comes from a different vendor). I love this and have gotten the quiche two years in a row – it’s easy dinners for almost a week! Umbrellas have by far been the most popular gift we’ve gotten. We’ve done two rounds – one large golf umbrella (so popular that they had to hide them to keep people from taking an extra one and then used them as a fundraiser for a company donation to a local charity) and a smaller travel umbrella. They get high-quality umbrellas (much nicer than my Target or Amazon purchases), and they even have wind vents in them so they don’t turn inside out. Best in recent memory is a novelty silicone ice cube tray. We’re a neuroscience company, so I get brain-shaped ice cubes in my cocktails now. Please share successful gifts you’ve seen! The post let’s talk about corporate gifts you actually liked appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The top Senate Democrat pressed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for more details about the The President administration's efforts to take the mortgage giants public. View the full article

Indeed’s AI at Work report ranks marketing 4th for GenAI exposure, with 69% of skills shifting toward hybrid human-AI workflows. The post Marketing Is 4th Most Exposed To GenAI, Indeed Study Finds appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

FHFA's announcement has investors increasingly concerned about the Bozeman, Montana-based FICO losing both pricing power and a competitive edge. View the full article

Lenders recognize the value of regular review of the tech stack, but their approach needs to involve year-round check-ins and conversations with vendors. View the full article

The US innovation model may be universally admired but its foundations are being underminedView the full article

Contract closings fell 0.2% last month to an annualized rate of 4 million, according to National Association of Realtors figures released Thursday. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding Lifehacker as a preferred source for tech news. If you’re in the market for a speaker that doesn’t sacrifice sound quality for durability (and also doubles as a power bank), a new JBL Charge 6 is currently 30% off on Woot for a limited time, dropping the price from $200 to $140. Woot only ships to the 48 contiguous states in the U.S., and Amazon members get free shipping, while non-members pay an extra $6. If your speaker isn’t exactly what you expected, all products come with Woot’s 90-day warranty program. JBL Charge 6 $139.95 at Woot! $199.95 Save $60.00 Get Deal Get Deal $139.95 at Woot! $199.95 Save $60.00 The Charge 6, made more portable with a removable handle strap, is also waterproof and dust-resistant. It has an IP68 rating, meaning you can submerge it in up to 1.5 meters of water for around 30 minutes without risking damage. It also features enhanced drop protection and bumpers compared to earlier versions of the Charge, but new updates mean that it is slightly heavier (three lbs compared to 2.1 lbs). Amazon reviewers and professional testers alike were impressed by this compact speaker’s strong sound, with this PCMag review calling it “surprisingly punchy.” This performance is bolstered by customizable EQ and a new seven-band equalizer feature in the app that lets you further fine-tune output. Users can also pair multiple Charge 6 speakers to enable Auracast for more immersive sound. Like most JBL devices, the battery life is long-lasting, providing up to 24 hours with standard use. You can squeeze an extra four hours of juice out of it with the “Playtime Boost” mode, but as the PCMag review notes, it sacrifices some bass as a result. If you need to charge smartphones or tablets, the speaker’s 34-watt-hour battery also works as a convenient power bank, though it doesn’t come with an included USB cable or charging brick. If you’re looking for a small speaker that can last a full day, be used as a power bank, and deliver well-balanced sound with considerable volume, the JBL Charge 6 is a solid option. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge 256GB Unlocked AI Phone (Titanium JetBlack) — $699.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Roku Streaming Stick Plus — $29.00 (List Price $39.99) Blink Mini 2 1080p Indoor Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $34.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Battery Doorbell Plus — $79.99 (List Price $149.99) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $34.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen, 2-pack, White) — $49.98 (List Price $79.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Group details $865mn restructuring programme and outlook reflecting sluggish corporate demand for consulting projectsView the full article

The crash of a small plane in southwestern Brazil killed four people including Chinese landscape architect and urban planner Yu Kongjian, Brazilian authorities said Wednesday. The accident happened late Tuesday during a landing attempt at a large farm about 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the municipality of Aquidauana in Mato Grosso do Sul state, firefighters said. Yu, who was known for promoting ecologically sound development, was traveling with two Brazilian documentary makers, Luiz Fernando Feres da Cunha Ferraz and Rubens Crispim Jr., who were making a film about the Pantanal wetlands. All three were killed along with pilot Marcelo Pereira de Barros, authorities said. Yu was know for developing the concept of “sponge cities,” with infrastructure that can absorb rainwater to mitigate flood risks and improve the urban climate. “In times of climate change,” Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva wrote on social media, “Yu became a global reference with his sponge cities, which unite quality of life and environmental protection.” Yu argued that by creating large spaces to hold water in city centers, such as parks and ponds, extreme rainfall can be absorbed, helping prevent floods. The idea is widely cited in Chinese urban planning, and in recent years Yu worked on projects in other countries including Saudi Arabia and Thailand. He was known for his “notable contributions to sustainable urbanism, the preservation of biodiversity, and the protection of the planet,” Brazil’s Vice President Geraldo Alckmin said on X, adding that Yu’s legacy will continue to inspire those dedicated to ecological cause. Yu founded the College of Architecture and Landscape at Peking University, one of China’s most prestigious universities. The university did not respond a request for comment. The military fire department in Aquidauana was called at around 8:10 p.m. local time on Tuesday to respond to a plane crash, firefighters said. A search and rescue operation lasted approximately nine hours. Yu and the filmmakers were part of a team producing a documentary about the world’s largest tropical wetlands. The Pantanal, fed by tributaries of the Paraguay River and mostly located in Brazil, is a biodiversity hotspot and a popular destination for tourists to see jaguars, macaws, caimans, capybaras and migratory birds in the wild. In an interview with The Associated Press in 2022, Yu criticized much of Asia’s modern infrastructure for being built on ideas imported from Europe, which he said are ill-fitted to the monsoon climate that prevails over much of the continent. Fu Ting contributed to this report from Washington D.C. and Mauricio Savarese from Sao Paulo. —Eléonore Hughes, Associated Press View the full article

Small businesses are no longer just adapting to technology; they are leveraging it to drive growth and innovation. In a compelling presentation during Zoomtopia, Hayden Brown, CEO of Upwork, highlighted the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the small business landscape. “AI has had a net-positive impact on revenue for 93% of small businesses surveyed,” she reported, noting that 82% of respondents also saw cost reductions due to AI integration. This data points to a significant trend: small businesses are not just surviving; they are thriving by harnessing advanced technologies. The recent remarks from Brown set the stage for deeper discussions on AI’s role in business operations at Zoom’s annual event. As small business owners look for ways to maximize their resources and enhance productivity, these insights carry weight. AI is evolving from being merely a tool to becoming a pivotal partner that drives efficiency and improved outcomes. One major initiative announced at the event was the Zoom Solopreneur 50, introduced by Kim Storin, Zoom’s Chief Marketing Officer. This program aims to recognize and celebrate high-growth businesses run by solo founders who are capitalizing on AI and innovation to propel their businesses. Storin remarked on the potential of solopreneurs, indicating that “in the next few years, we’ll see the first solopreneur unicorn company.” This ambitious outlook highlights the growing acknowledgment of solo entrepreneurs as valuable contributors to the economy, particularly in an increasingly digital world. For small business owners, the implications of embracing AI are substantial. Whether it’s automating routine tasks, analyzing consumer behavior, or enhancing customer interactions, AI can serve as an extra set of hands that enhances operational efficiency. AI tools can streamline customer service processes, provide personalized marketing solutions, and even support decision-making by offering data insights that small business owners might not access otherwise. However, small business owners should also be aware of the potential challenges that come with this technological shift. One significant concern is the cost of implementing AI solutions. While 82% of businesses reported cost reductions post-AI adoption, the initial investment may be a barrier for some. It is crucial for owners to carefully evaluate the long-term ROI against immediate expenditures. Furthermore, as Brown’s statistics suggest, although a vast majority of small businesses have seen positive impacts from AI, the success of technology adoption often hinges on understanding how to integrate these tools effectively into existing workflows. Small businesses may require additional training or support to help staff adapt to these systems, which can create an additional line item in budgets. In addition, the rapid pace of technological advancement poses another challenge. It can be overwhelming for small business owners to stay updated on the latest AI tools and trends. Companies must strategically choose which technologies align most closely with their specific needs and capabilities. As this landscape continues to evolve, the recognition of solopreneurs and the focus on AI-driven business models signal a shift in how we view entrepreneurship. Those leading single-person enterprises are proving that innovation can flourish outside traditional business structures. Business owners who harness this momentum and emphasize a strategic adoption of AI will better position themselves to thrive in a competitive market. As AI becomes more integrated into the everyday functions of small businesses, owners should closely consider both the opportunities and challenges presented. The transition to a more AI-driven approach will require careful planning, investment, and ongoing education, but the potential rewards stand to benefit the future of small business significantly. For further insights on these topics, detailed findings from Zoomtopia can be accessed at Zoom’s official blog. Image via Envato This article, "AI Drives Revenue Growth for 93% of Small Businesses, Zoom Announces Initiative" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Small businesses are no longer just adapting to technology; they are leveraging it to drive growth and innovation. In a compelling presentation during Zoomtopia, Hayden Brown, CEO of Upwork, highlighted the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the small business landscape. “AI has had a net-positive impact on revenue for 93% of small businesses surveyed,” she reported, noting that 82% of respondents also saw cost reductions due to AI integration. This data points to a significant trend: small businesses are not just surviving; they are thriving by harnessing advanced technologies. The recent remarks from Brown set the stage for deeper discussions on AI’s role in business operations at Zoom’s annual event. As small business owners look for ways to maximize their resources and enhance productivity, these insights carry weight. AI is evolving from being merely a tool to becoming a pivotal partner that drives efficiency and improved outcomes. One major initiative announced at the event was the Zoom Solopreneur 50, introduced by Kim Storin, Zoom’s Chief Marketing Officer. This program aims to recognize and celebrate high-growth businesses run by solo founders who are capitalizing on AI and innovation to propel their businesses. Storin remarked on the potential of solopreneurs, indicating that “in the next few years, we’ll see the first solopreneur unicorn company.” This ambitious outlook highlights the growing acknowledgment of solo entrepreneurs as valuable contributors to the economy, particularly in an increasingly digital world. For small business owners, the implications of embracing AI are substantial. Whether it’s automating routine tasks, analyzing consumer behavior, or enhancing customer interactions, AI can serve as an extra set of hands that enhances operational efficiency. AI tools can streamline customer service processes, provide personalized marketing solutions, and even support decision-making by offering data insights that small business owners might not access otherwise. However, small business owners should also be aware of the potential challenges that come with this technological shift. One significant concern is the cost of implementing AI solutions. While 82% of businesses reported cost reductions post-AI adoption, the initial investment may be a barrier for some. It is crucial for owners to carefully evaluate the long-term ROI against immediate expenditures. Furthermore, as Brown’s statistics suggest, although a vast majority of small businesses have seen positive impacts from AI, the success of technology adoption often hinges on understanding how to integrate these tools effectively into existing workflows. Small businesses may require additional training or support to help staff adapt to these systems, which can create an additional line item in budgets. In addition, the rapid pace of technological advancement poses another challenge. It can be overwhelming for small business owners to stay updated on the latest AI tools and trends. Companies must strategically choose which technologies align most closely with their specific needs and capabilities. As this landscape continues to evolve, the recognition of solopreneurs and the focus on AI-driven business models signal a shift in how we view entrepreneurship. Those leading single-person enterprises are proving that innovation can flourish outside traditional business structures. Business owners who harness this momentum and emphasize a strategic adoption of AI will better position themselves to thrive in a competitive market. As AI becomes more integrated into the everyday functions of small businesses, owners should closely consider both the opportunities and challenges presented. The transition to a more AI-driven approach will require careful planning, investment, and ongoing education, but the potential rewards stand to benefit the future of small business significantly. For further insights on these topics, detailed findings from Zoomtopia can be accessed at Zoom’s official blog. Image via Envato This article, "AI Drives Revenue Growth for 93% of Small Businesses, Zoom Announces Initiative" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

800M AI searches happen weekly. Learn how top brands measure, optimize & win AI visibility across ChatGPT, Claude & Perplexity. Register free. The post Track, Prioritize & Win: The Complete GEO Playbook For AI Search Visibility appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Technical knowledge & behavioral insights create holistic client solutions. Accounting ARC With Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting Transformation Go PRO for members-only access to more Center for Accounting Transformation. View the full article

Technical knowledge & behavioral insights create holistic client solutions. Accounting ARC With Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting Transformation Go PRO for members-only access to more Center for Accounting Transformation. View the full article

In a busy manufacturing environment, visibility and accountability are crucial for maintaining smooth operations. A kamishibai board provides a simple yet powerful way for teams to manage audits, track compliance tasks and ensure that processes are consistently followed. With the right approach, it helps manufacturers maintain quality standards, reduce downtime and foster a culture of continuous improvement across the shop floor. Using a kamishibai board makes it easy to spot missed steps, assign responsibility and monitor performance in real time. Manufacturers can quickly see which tasks have been completed, which are pending and where potential problems might arise. This proactive approach reduces errors, improves communication between teams and keeps everyone aligned with production goals. In this guide, we’ll explore why using a kamishibai board can benefit manufacturers and share examples and templates to help you get started. /wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Kamishibai-template-featured-image.jpg Get your free Printable Kamishibai Card Template Use this free Printable Kamishibai Card Template for Excel to manage your projects better. Download Excel File What Is a Kamishibai Board? A kamishibai board is a visual management tool that helps teams track recurring tasks and standardize processes on the shop floor. It is often used in lean manufacturing to audit workflows and ensure that key tasks are completed as scheduled. The board uses cards to represent tasks, allowing managers and operators to quickly see what has been done and what still needs attention. This level of transparency helps maintain quality, reduce errors and promote consistent production practices. Because it’s highly visual, a kamishibai board allows for instant feedback. Team members can see missed tasks or delayed activities immediately, and supervisors can follow up to correct issues before they escalate. This proactive monitoring supports a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, helping manufacturers minimize waste and keep production lines running efficiently. When paired with project management software, a kamishibai board becomes even more powerful. Software can automate task tracking, send reminders and store historical data for performance analysis. Managers can centralize audits, assign ownership digitally and create reports to monitor trends. This eliminates manual tracking and ensures that all stakeholders have real-time access to process data, making it easier to keep production on schedule. ProjectManager takes this one step further by connecting kamishibai board tasks to a live Gantt chart. This means that recurring audits and process checks appear directly on the manufacturing project timeline, giving managers full visibility into their impact on production. With task dependencies, critical path filtering and baseline tracking, our software allows teams to see how process audits affect overall project delivery and adjust schedules as needed. This integration helps maintain efficiency while keeping compliance and quality checks fully aligned with production goals. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Manufacturing-gantt-chart-light-mode-costs-exposed-cta-e1712005286389.jpgLearn more When to Use a Kamishibai Board A kamishibai board is most effective when it’s part of a consistent routine that keeps manufacturing teams focused on quality and process compliance. One of the best times to use a kamishibai board is during a gemba walk, when managers or team leads go to the production floor to observe operations directly. By pulling kamishibai cards during the gemba walk, leaders can verify that standard operating procedures are being followed, confirm that safety checks are complete and address any issues on the spot. Kamishibai boards are also helpful during shift changes, daily stand-up meetings or weekly production reviews. They create a structured way to confirm that routine tasks such as equipment inspections, cleaning and maintenance have been completed. This ensures that no steps are skipped and that the production line stays reliable. Using a kamishibai board consistently builds a culture of accountability and makes it easier to spot process gaps early, which helps prevent larger problems and production delays. Related: 18 Free Manufacturing Excel Templates Kamishibai Board Components A kamishibai board is simple by design, but its components work together to create an effective visual management system. Each element plays a role in making tasks easy to track and audits quick to perform. By understanding the key components of a kamishibai board, manufacturers can design one that fits their workflow and supports continuous improvement on the shop floor. Kamishibai Board Columns Kamishibai board columns define the overall structure of the system. At a high level, the board acts as a scheduler and visual tracker, showing when audits or standard work checks need to happen. Instead of carrying task details, it provides a framework that makes responsibilities visible to everyone on the shop floor. The arrangement of the board can change from one workplace to another, but the goal remains the same: to make the timing and flow of audits transparent and easy to follow. Kamishibai board columns can represent the following. Timeframes for the execution of tasks: Most kamishibai boards are split into vertical columns that represent time periods, and cards are placed under each of those timeframes so employees know that a task is meant to be executed at a particular time. The most common timeframes are: work shifts, days of the week, bi-weekly periods or monthly periods. Task categories: In some cases, kamishibai boards are not only divided by timeframes but also have horizontal columns to further specify the type of work, or task category, such as safety checks, quality checks, maintenance tasks, operational standards, etc. Task owner: Sometimes, especially in small teams, kamishibai boards can also display team members’ names and cards are then placed under each person’s name. Related: 10 Best Production Planning Software Kamishibai Cards Kamishibai cards are the core content carriers of the system. Each card represents a specific task or audit checkpoint and provides clear guidance on what needs to be checked, by whom, and how results should be displayed. Unlike the board, which organizes timing, the cards themselves drive the action by containing the instructions, questions and indicators that guide workplace audits. When returned to the board, their color-coded sides make results instantly visible, reinforcing accountability and transparency. Kamishibai cards can represent the following. Audit question: Each card often begins with a guiding question, such as “Are safety barriers in place?” or “Is the machine properly lubricated?” These questions help auditors focus on a specific standard without ambiguity. Task description: Cards typically include a short explanation of what the task involves. This ensures that anyone, even a substitute or new employee, can understand what to look for and can carry out the check. Area/Location/Machine ID: To avoid confusion, cards frequently identify where the check should be performed, such as a workstation number, machine ID, or physical area within the facility. Checklist items or criteria: Some cards break down a task into smaller points. For example, a quality check card might list “Inspect packaging, verify labels, confirm seal.” This helps auditors stay thorough. Signature field: Many cards include a small space for initials or a signature to confirm accountability. This ensures that checks are traceable and not performed anonymously. Date field: In some systems, cards have a space for the audit date. This helps track when checks were completed, especially if cards are reused over multiple cycles. Frequency indicator: Even though the board shows the schedule, the card often states if the task is daily, weekly or monthly. Task status: Kamishibai cards usually have two sides, red and green. If the kamishibai card is flipped on its green side, that means the task is completed. However, if the kamishibai card is showing its red side, the task isn’t completed; it’s either pending or there are issues. Task owner: Most kamishibai boards don’t show task owners, so the owner is usually indicated in the kamishibai cards. Kamishibai Board Examples To further illustrate the versatility of kamishibai boards, here are two examples. One of them categorizes kamishibai cards by task category, and the other groups kamishibai cards by person. /wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Kamishibai-Board-Examples.png Kamishibai Card Example Here is what a kamishibai card should look like. It contains the elements discussed above. /wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Kamishibai-Card-Example.png Printable Kamishibai Card Template To create a kamishibai card like the example above, you can download our free, printable kamishibai card template for Excel by clicking the image below. /wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Kamishibai-Card-Template.png With this template, you can easily fill out your kamishibai cards in Excel, or simply print them out and fill them out manually. Their size can be adjusted to fit your physical kamishibai boards. How to Use a Kamishibai Board In a Gemba Walk Using a kamishibai board during a gemba walk ensures that audits are structured, transparent and easy to follow. The board guides supervisors through what needs to be checked, while the cards provide the details for each task. By following a simple step-by-step process, organizations can make standard work visible and drive continuous improvement. 1. Decide the Layout for the Kamishibai Board Choose whether the board will be organized by timeframes (days, shifts) or by categories (safety, quality, maintenance). The layout should make it easy to see at a glance what needs to be checked. 2. Create Kamishibai Cards Design cards with clear audit questions, task descriptions, and red/green sides. Ensure each card has enough detail to guide anyone doing the gemba walk without extra explanation. 3. Perform the Gemba Walk and Flip Cards Supervisors or team leaders take the day’s cards, visit the gemba, and carry out the checks. When tasks are verified, cards are returned to the board with the appropriate color showing—green if standards are met, red if not. 4. Review Results and Take Action At the end of the gemba walk, review the board. Red cards highlight problems that require corrective action. Assign follow-ups, record findings if needed, and ensure accountability. Over time, track trends to support continuous improvement. /wp-content/uploads/2025/09/banner-ad-manufacturing-ebook.jpg Benefits of Using a Kamishibai Board in Manufacturing Implementing a kamishibai board in a manufacturing setting offers a range of operational and cultural benefits. It strengthens accountability, improves communication and helps ensure that quality standards are consistently met. Here are some of the top benefits manufacturers can expect: Improves Process Visibility: A kamishibai board clarifies which tasks are complete and which still need attention, reducing confusion on the shop floor. Supports Gemba Walks: Supervisors can pull cards during a gemba walk to quickly confirm compliance with standard operating procedures and spot problems early. Encourages Accountability: Each card has an owner, making it clear who is responsible for completing a task and when it needs to be done. Enhances Communication: Teams can discuss completed or missed tasks during daily stand-ups, improving collaboration and transparency. Reduces Waste and Rework: By catching errors or missed steps early, the board helps prevent costly rework or production delays. Supports Continuous Improvement: Regular use of a kamishibai board highlights recurring issues, giving teams actionable data for process improvements. Standardizes Work: Tasks are visually organized, ensuring procedures are followed the same way every time and reducing variability in production. Boosts Engagement: Involving operators in the process gives them ownership over outcomes, which strengthens workplace culture and buy-in. Free Production and Manufacturing Templates Having the right project management templates can save time and make production planning, process mapping and inventory tracking much easier. These free templates are designed to help manufacturers streamline operations, improve visibility and keep teams aligned on priorities. Kanban Board Template Download this free kanban board template to visualize work in progress, track task status and keep production workflows organized. You can customize columns to represent different stages of your process and move tasks as they advance through production. SIPOC Template Use this free SIPOC template for process improvement projects. It lets you map Suppliers, Inputs, Processes, Outputs and Customers in a single view so you can better understand your production process and identify opportunities to eliminate waste. Inventory Template This free inventory template helps track raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods in real time. It allows manufacturers to stay on top of stock levels, avoid shortages and reduce excess inventory that ties up valuable resources. ProjectManager Is Better Than a Kamishibai Board for Managing Manufacturing Projects While a kamishibai board is a helpful visual tool for on-the-floor quality and process checks, it can’t give manufacturers the full picture. ProjectManager offers multiple project views—list, kanban, sheet and calendar—so production managers and supervisors can plan, assign and execute tasks in the format that works best for them. Unlike a static board, these views sync automatically and give your entire team a shared source of truth, even across multiple facilities. Watch the short video below for more insights into how ProjectManager supports manufacturing processes. Streamline Resource Management One of the biggest challenges in manufacturing is ensuring resources are available when they’re needed. ProjectManager’s workload charts show who is under- or overallocated so you can balance work and avoid delays. You can assign tasks, track labor hours and even manage equipment schedules in one place. This prevents bottlenecks caused by resource conflicts and ensures production deadlines stay on track. Built-in cost tracking also helps maintain budget control by comparing planned vs. actual expenses in real time. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png Track Performance with Real-Time Dashboards Kamishibai boards rely on manual updates and on-site observation, which can slow decision-making. ProjectManager’s real-time dashboards automatically track key manufacturing metrics like task progress, production output and resource utilization without extra data entry. Customizable reports let you drill into schedule performance, cost variance and quality trends to find and fix problems quickly. With this level of visibility, production managers can make informed decisions, keep operations running smoothly and maintain continuous improvement efforts. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Team-summary-better-data-light-mode-home-screen-dashboard.png Related Manufacturing Content A kamishibai board is part of the much larger manufacturing project management process. For readers who care to continue to read about this subject, below are some links to stories on lean, just-in-time manufacturing, continuous improvement and much more. What Is Lean Manufacturing? Definitions, Principles & Techniques Just-In-Time Manufacturing & Production (JIT): A Quick Guide The 5 Lean Principles & Techniques Continuous Improvement: A Quick Guide Shop Floor Management: Planning, Scheduling and Control Kaizen Method: Definition, Principles and Implementation ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment on the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Why Use a Kamishibai Board in Manufacturing? (Examples & Template Included) appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Setting clear objectives and tracking measurable results is critical for aligning teams and driving business outcomes. An objectives and key results template, or an OKR template in Google Sheets, provides a simple way to document objectives, key results and progress updates in one centralized location. Whether you are setting goals for a small team or coordinating across departments, this template helps keep everyone focused on priorities and working toward the same outcomes. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a ready-to-use OKR template for Google Sheets that’s flexible enough to fit quarterly, monthly or annual goal-setting cycles. We’ll also share tips on how to adapt it for different business needs, from startup growth targets to enterprise strategy execution. If you want a lightweight solution for tracking objectives without the cost or complexity of heavy software, this guide is the perfect starting point. Why Use an OKR Template for Google Sheets? Using an OKR template for Google Sheets is a practical and accessible way to set, track and achieve goals. It allows you to list objectives, link measurable key results and monitor progress in one shared document. With built-in features like formulas, conditional formatting and color coding, Google Sheets makes it simple to customize your OKR template for any business cycle. Whether you’re running quarterly reviews or planning yearly strategic initiatives, a spreadsheet offers a lightweight and device-friendly solution. Another advantage of using an OKR template in Google Sheets is the collaborative space it provides. Multiple team members can view and update progress in real time, making it easy to align on shared goals and stay accountable. You can use it as a simple personal OKR tracker or expand it into a comprehensive team OKR dashboard that covers multiple departments. It’s an affordable, flexible solution for teams that don’t require advanced software but still want visibility on progress. That said, as OKR programs expand across teams and departments, Google Sheets can start to feel limiting. It doesn’t automate updates, manage dependencies or integrate with other workflows, which can create version control issues. Project management software offers stronger capabilities, including dynamic goal tracking, resource planning and live progress updates. These tools ensure that every objective and key result is tied to actionable work across the organization. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with a powerful Gantt chart that turns your objectives into visual roadmaps. You can connect key results to tasks, shift timelines as needed and monitor real-time progress on a single, interactive platform. With dashboards, workload charts and customizable reports, our software gives you more visibility and control over your OKR programs than a spreadsheet ever could. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Gantt-CTA-2025.jpgLearn more Free OKR Template for Google Sheets Download this free OKR template for Google Sheets by clicking on the image below. It’s a fast way to set and track objectives and key results. The template comes pre-formatted with columns for objectives, key results, owners, progress updates and due dates—so you can skip building it from scratch and focus on aligning your team’s goals. It’s designed to be simple yet powerful, allowing you to manage OKRs for a single team or scale across your entire organization. Just make a copy and save it to your Google Drive, and start customizing it to match your quarterly or annual planning cycles. /wp-content/uploads/2024/11/OKR-Template-for-Google-Sheets.webp Whether you’re using it for individual performance tracking or aligning multiple departments, this OKR template for Google Sheets adapts to your workflow. Since it’s built in Google Sheets, you can collaborate in real time, update progress from any device and keep everyone accountable with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a free, easy-to-use OKR tracking solution, this download gives you everything you need to stay focused and measure success effectively. OKR Template for Google Sheets: Pros & Cons An OKR template for Google Sheets is a popular solution for teams that want a lightweight, customizable way to manage objectives and key results. It provides a simple structure to set goals, track progress and align team efforts without paying for complex OKR software. While it has many strengths, it also has limitations that may affect performance as your OKR program scales. Below, we break down the main advantages and drawbacks of using an OKR template in Google Sheets so you can determine if it’s the right tool for your team. Pros of Making an OKR Template in Google Sheets One of the biggest benefits of creating an OKR template for Google Sheets is how easy it is to start. With basic spreadsheet skills, you can quickly set up objectives, add key results and track progress. Google Sheets allows you to use conditional formatting, progress bars and formulas to calculate achievement percentages, making OKRs visual and interactive. Accessibility is another major advantage. Because the OKR template in Google Sheets lives in the cloud, multiple users can update progress in real time from anywhere. Version history makes it easy to review changes over time, keeping everyone accountable and aligned. Customization is also a strong point. You can create separate tabs for different teams, add quarterly planning sections or filter key results by owner. Unlike fixed-format OKR tools, Google Sheets allows you to design your own system, enabling you to include only what fits your workflow. Related: 32 Must-Have Project Management Templates for Google Sheets Cons of Making an OKR Template in Google Sheets Despite the flexibility, using Google Sheets for OKRs has challenges—especially when managing many objectives across departments. One major limitation is the lack of automation. Unlike dedicated OKR software that updates progress automatically based on connected data, Sheets requires manual updates, which can lead to outdated information if contributors forget to log updates. Scalability is another concern. As more teams add their OKRs or as the sheet grows in size, it can become cluttered and slow to load. Coordinating quarterly planning across multiple spreadsheets can be time-consuming and error-prone. Finally, Google Sheets lacks built-in reporting or analytics for OKRs. If you want to see performance trends, aggregate results or compare periods, you’ll need to build complex formulas and charts manually. For small teams, Google Sheets may work well, but larger organizations often outgrow it and need project management software for better visibility and control. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PM-101-eBook-banner-ad.jpg ProjectManager Is Better than a Google Sheets Template While this Google Sheets template has many benefits, it’s still more advantageous for teams to use project management software like ProjectManager instead. Use Resource Management Tools to Stay Productive Resource management is one of the biggest areas where ProjectManager outperforms an OKR template in Google Sheets. With built-in tools to see team availability, plan workloads and balance capacity, managers can assign objectives and key results strategically based on who is available and avoid overloading contributors. The color-coded workload chart gives a clear view of each team member’s commitments, helping prevent burnout and ensuring balanced workloads. The team management page provides a centralized space to monitor assignments and adjust schedules in real time, which is something Google Sheets cannot do effectively as OKRs grow in complexity. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png Monitor Progress and More in Real Time Tracking performance and sharing updates with stakeholders is seamless in ProjectManager. Live dashboards display real-time progress toward objectives, while customizable reports deliver detailed insights into team performance and goal achievement. This allows managers to identify risks early, reallocate resources and ensure OKRs stay on track. Unlike an OKR template for Google Sheets or other static spreadsheets, ProjectManager keeps everyone aligned with up-to-date information across multiple projects. Secure timesheets and automated reporting give you accurate data for quarterly reviews, making it easier to evaluate results and plan the next cycle. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Team-summary-better-data-light-mode-home-screen-dashboard.png How to Use This Free OKR Template for Google Sheets This OKR template in Google Sheets provides a clear framework for managing objectives and key results. It includes columns for priority, assigned owner, status, start and due dates, estimated duration, resources required, estimated cost, actual cost and notes. You’ll also see example objectives with matching key results to help you understand how to fill out each section. Because it’s a template, you can copy it into your Google Drive and start customizing immediately for your business needs. Each section of the template lines up with important planning elements: defining objectives, identifying key results, setting timelines, assigning resources and tracking both costs and status. As you work through each row, you’ll map what needs to be done, when it needs to be done, who will do it and what it will cost. Keeping actual costs and notes in the same place helps with accountability and keeps everyone informed about progress or delays. 1. Define the Objectives of Your Business Start by writing down one or more high-level objectives that reflect what your business aims to achieve over the next quarter or year. Objectives should be challenging but realistic, aligned with the broader strategy and clearly worded so every team member understands their purpose. In the template for Google Sheets, objectives are grouped at the top of each section so key results can be tied back easily and tracked consistently. 2. Break Down the Objectives Into Key Results Key results are the measurable outcomes that show whether your objectives are being met. Use the template to list several key results under each objective. Key results should be specific, quantifiable and tied to performance indicators like revenue growth, customer satisfaction or feature delivery. Be sure each key result has an assigned owner who is accountable for making progress. 3. Make a Timeline for the Achievement of Key Results Use the start and due date fields to map out when each key result should begin and end. Estimated duration helps you see how long the work will take, so you can avoid overloading team members. The timeline columns in the template let you visualize deadlines at a glance so everyone knows what is due when and can adjust priorities accordingly. 4. Assign Resources for the Completion of Key Results Identify who will do the work and what support they’ll need. The resources field in the template lets you specify departments or people, tools or software and any materials required. Clear resource assignment ensures tasks aren’t stalled by missing skills, tools or capacity. It also helps distribute work evenly rather than overburdening some team members. 5. Estimate the Costs of Completing Key Results Use the estimated cost column to forecast budget needs for each key result. Include costs for human resources, equipment, software licenses and any external services. Track actual cost as work progresses so you can compare estimates to real expenses. This comparison helps you see where you under- or overspend and improve forecasting over time. 6. Monitor the Status of Key Results The status column allows you to update the progress of each key result (for example, “not started,” “in progress,” “on track,” “behind”). Use the percentage complete field to track how far along work is. Notes lets you flag issues, adjustments or upcoming risks. Monitoring status regularly keeps everyone aligned, makes it easier to catch problems early and helps maintain accountability. More Project Management Templates for Google Sheets An OKR template for Google Sheets is only one of the many free Google Sheets templates available for immediate download from our site. While project management software is better suited to working more efficiently and effectively, for those who aren’t ready to upgrade, below are just a few that readers can use right now. Gantt Chart Template for Google Sheets Download this free Gantt chart template for Google Sheets for a visual project planning tool that displays tasks along a timeline, showing start and end dates and durations. It helps teams map out project schedules, identify overlaps and stay on track with deadlines—all within the familiar Google Sheets interface. Ideal for project managers and teams, this template offers a simple way to plan, update and monitor progress without needing specialized software. Google Sheets Budget Template Use this free Google Sheets budget template to track income, expenses and overall financial performance. It helps individuals or teams plan budgets, monitor spending and compare actual costs against estimates—all in one easy-to-use, customizable format. Ideal for personal use, small businesses or project planning, it simplifies financial tracking without the need for advanced accounting tools. Google Sheets Inventory Template This free Google Sheets inventory template is designed to help track stock levels, item details and reorder status. It allows businesses to log product names, quantities, locations and other key information in an organized format. This template makes it easy to monitor inventory in real time, avoid stockouts and keep operations running smoothly—all within the familiar and shareable environment of Google Sheets. Related Google Sheets Content Our OKR template for Google Sheets is only one of many templates and articles we’ve published on using Google Sheets for project management. For those curious about other templates and techniques that can help manage projects, follow the handful of links below. 32 Must-Have Project Management Templates for Google Sheets Free Gantt Chart Templates for Excel, Google Sheets & More 13 Budget Templates for Business & Project Budgeting Tracking Budget Variance in Project Management What Is a Budget Report? Purpose, Components & Benefits ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Free OKR Template for Google Sheets appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today...View the full article

Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding my work at Lifehacker as a preferred source. Australian indie game studio Team Cherry released Hollow Knight: Silksong on Sept. 4, and within three weeks, the combat/platformer climbed up Steam's most played chart, made Xbox's most played list, and gained legions of fans on Switch and PlayStation consoles. So a lot of people are playing it. If you're one of them, and you've uncovered every secret in Pharloom (or you just need a break), here are 10 more games you might like. They're (roughly) all in the metroidvania family of games, so they feature 2D platforming, exploration of interconnected worlds, and unlockable upgrades that both open new-areas and add skills. But those seemingly narrow genre conventions can contain everything from the lighthearted comedy of Guacamelee! to the grim, dark world of Blasphemous 2. Hollow Knight (2017) If you went out of order and played the sequel first, you can still go back and check out the first game. Made by the same studio as Silksong, Hollow Knight offers a similar mix of platforming, combat, and exploration in the same universe as Silksong. If you're into story, the lore revealed in Hollow Knight will almost definitely give context to everything in Silksong. Added bonus: while Hollow Knight is not an easy game by any definition, it has a more gentle learning curve than its sequel. Hollow Knight is available on PC, Mac, Switch, Playstation, and Xbox systems. Super Metroid (1994) The metroidvania sub-genre is half-named for the Metroid series, so you gotta check out the blueprint. All of the Metroid games have their merit, but, in my opinion, the first entry in the series that totally gelled is 1994's Super Metroid, an all-time classic originally released for the Super Nintendo. The controls can take a little getting used to for modern gamers, but Metroid invented the "exploration+combat+platforming" genre vibe, and it's still a top-notch gaming experience, even for people who weren't born when the original came out. Super Metroid is playable on every Nintendo system, from the Super Nintendo to the Switch 2. Castlevania: Circle of the Moon (2001) The "vania" part of the metroidvania genre refers to the Castlevania series, so video game archeologists who like Silksong would be doing themselves a huge favor by checking out some Castlevania. But be judicious in your choices: some games in the series are amazing and some are...less so. You could make a case for many other Castlevania games, but Circle of the Moon is my pick if you like Silksong. It's extremely challenging, features beautiful graphics (for 2001) and tons of secrets to uncover through open-world platforming, just like Hollow Knight: Silksong. Circle of the Moon was re-released as part of the Castlevania Advance Collection (that also includes Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance, Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, and Castlevania: Dracula X) for Switch, PlayStation, Windows, and Xbox systems. Animal Well (2024) Enough moldy oldies! If your favorite parts of Silksong are the beautiful graphics, sweeping soundtrack, exploration, and deep lore, but you're not so hot on the combat and punishing platforming, check out Animal Well, a metroidvania game that's heavier on puzzles than fast reflexes. Animal Well is the kind of game you get deeply addicted to. It lures you in with beautiful visuals and a lighthearted vibe, but you'll soon find yourself awake at three in the morning, trying to uncover every last secret this work-of-video-game-art is hiding. Animal Well is available for Windows, Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems. Cuphead (2017) Okay, Cuphead isn't really a metroidvania game, but I'm including it here for people who crave the difficult platforming and punishing boss battles of Silksong, but don't really care for the exploration. This universally beloved game features a vibe based on cartoons from the 1920s and 30s, and presents players with some of the hardest boss battles in video game history. Like Silksong, Cuphead looks so stylish you might not expect the difficulty, but downing bosses is crazy hard, though it rarely feels frustrating because it's so satisfying. Cuphead is playable on PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Ori and the Blind Forest (2015) Both Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, are excellent follow-ups to Hollow Knight: Silksong. They look beautiful and offer the joy of exploration, combat using a myriad of constantly unlocking new powers, deep and engaging lore, and an extremely smooth progression from powerless nooblet to God-tier combatant. You can play Ori and the Blind Forest on Switch, PC, and Xbox systems. Cave Story (2004) Back in 2004, Cave Story was envisioned as a throwback to the golden age of Nintendo platformers of the 1980s. The ensuing 20 years of gaming added an extra layer of nostalgia, but Cave Story totally works, no matter what era you play it in. Level design has rarely been done better, the story starts simple but moves in surprising directions, and the pixel art style still looks retro-fresh. The gameplay is more linear than the Hollow Knight games, but it still offers a world of hidden secrets to uncover, addictive platforming, and creative boss battles. You can play Cave Story on PC, Mac, and Switch. Islets (2022) If you've just finished Silksong, your cramped-up hands could probably use a break. A bit of an undiscovered gem, Islets is an indie metrovania game with a cozy vibe courtesy of graphics that look hand-drawn, smooth-as-butter gameplay, an intriguing story, and memorable, hilarious characters. Many of the elements are shared across games, but Islets differs from Silksong in terms of mood and difficulty. Where Silksong is heavy on dark mystery, Islets is more charming, funny, and hopeful. It's also a lot more forgiving if you have slower reflexes. You can play Islets on PC, Switch, and Xbox systems. Guacamelee! (2013) Speaking of giving yourself a break, Guacamelee! is 180-degree tonal change Hollow Knight: Silksong. Inspired by Mexican folklore, Guacamelee! casts the player as a luchador saving a colorful world through beating up tons of bad guys. It nearly totally lacks the broody energy of Hollow Knight: Silksong, but the 2D platforming, skill-based progression, and exploration of interconnected world will be familiar. You can play Guacamelee! on PC, Mac, Xbox, Playstation, and Switch systems. Blasphemous 2 (2023) If you want a game that's darker than Hollow Knight: Silksong, Blasphemous 2 might be the download for you. Its Spanish Gothic visuals are a far cry from the colorful world of Hollow Knight, and its dark, religious tone and brutally visceral combat provides a nice contrast to Silksong's cute vibe. Looks and tone-wise, Blasphemous 2 sits squarely on the "Castlevania" side of metroidvanias, but maybe the darkest of its many secrets is that it's not as punishingly difficult as the Hollow Knight games. You can play Blasphemous 2 on PC, Switch, Playstation, and Xbox consoles. View the full article

Did you buy a new pink dress to watch the Barbie movie, only to never wear it again? An Oura ring because your favorite TikTok influencer had it? A new pair of baggy jeans because ’90s fashion is making a comeback? Niche trends fueled by social media can influence your shopping decisions. Participating often brings some happiness and a sense of community, but the problem comes when you do it so often that you’re not using your money to achieve your financial goals, or worse, you get into debt, said Erika Rasure, chief financial wellness advisor for Beyond Finance, a financial services company. Whether it’s coastal grandma or clean girl aesthetic, microtrends can take a significant toll on already-strained budgets as prices rise and Gen Z struggles to pay off debt. If you find yourself overspending to participate in microtrends, here are some expert recommendations: Pause before purchasing Before you click “buy” on TikTok Shop, it’s best if you take some time to reflect, said Jennifer Seitz, head of education for Greenlight, a financial literacy app for families. Pausing before a purchase can help you discern if the item is something you really want or a fleeting craving. “Think if you want to put it in a schedule pause, whether it’s 24 hours or even a couple of days if it’s a larger expense,” Seitz said. Participating in personal challenges can be a good way to get in the habit of making purchases more deliberate. Back in 2022, Alyssa Barber participated in the no-buy year challenge, where she pledged to stop buying non-essential items for a year. Barber shares sustainable practices with over 370,000 followers on TikTok, where one of her recurrent themes is how to stop impulse buying. Barber said the challenge gave her perspective on how much she was spending on things she didn’t need. Since then, she has changed her spending habits, focusing mainly on experiences. Know your spending values Taking a value-based spending approach can help you decide if you should participate in a trend you see online, Rasure said. If, for example, you want to build an emergency fund, having this goal in mind while shopping can help avoid unnecessary spending. Quynh Van, a 27-year-old UX designer from Minneapolis, was surprised by the number of ads on TikTok when she created an account after a four-year break from social media. And while being influenced by the ads is inevitable, she believes overspending comes in part from users not having defined goals. “When you don’t know who you are or what you like, you’re so driven by over-consumerism and lifestyle creep because you don’t have your values in order,” Van said. Rasure recommends using your financial values as a guiding principle for your spending decisions. If you’re not sure of your values, allocate some time to map them out according to your life goals. Create barriers to spending If a purchase is one click away, it can make it easier to spend large amounts of money. If you consciously make it a little harder to pay for an item, you can spend more mindfully, Seitz said. “Just that action of needing to input your payment information rather than just that simple click can help you give to really stop and think about purchases before moving ahead with them,” she added. To add barriers, you can remove your credit card details from your computer browser or social media and disable Apple Pay on your phone. Think of it as an act of self-care Finances are closely tied to emotions, and often, they evoke negative feelings such as shame or guilt. However, reframing them as an act of self-care can help you spend mindfully, Rasure said. “It can help you create boundaries around what you value spending money on, helps you choose intentionally and it feels more like freedom instead of restriction,” she said. Your spending habits in the present can help your future financial situation. This mindset can inspire you when you’re tempted to overspend on the newest trending electronic or fashion item. Engage with trends with moderation It can be OK to engage with trends if they bring you positive feelings, Rasure said. Van decided to participate in the matcha trend, but with moderation. For Barber, physical media, such as old records, DVDs, and cassettes, is on her list of non-negotiable expenses, as she loves collecting these items. “Trends and engaging them, engaging in them really should spark that happiness or contentment, not the debt that can go with them,” Rasure said. The Associated Press receives support from Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism. —Adriana Morga, Associated Press View the full article

Remember when former Try Guy Ned Fulmer was caught in a public cheating scandal that broke the internet? He’s back, this time with a new podcast called Rock Bottom with Ned Fulmer. Or as one commenter called it: “One of the most painful watches in YouTube history.” The podcast is meant to explore, “people’s lowest, most embarrassing, and challenging moments.” Fulmer’s first guest: his wife, Ariel. The first question many have asked is why would they do this? “Was this a humiliation ritual for him?” one TikTok user asked. According to Ariel, it was mostly for their children, aged 7 and 5, who they are currently coparenting, and as a way to move on and put the past in the past by bringing it all up again. In case you were living under a rock in 2022 and have no idea what a “Try Guy” is or what happened, let us catch you up to speed. The Try Guys were four former BuzzFeed employees, Keith Habersberger, Ned Fulmer, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang, who made content based around the simple premise of trying various things. In late 2022, their YouTube channel had close to 8 million subscribers, with their empire extending to TV shows, books, and podcasts. In 2022, it all came crashing down after internet sleuths uncovered Fulmer’s extramarital affair with a Try Guys producer. The scandal broke the internet and Fulmer was fired from the group after an internal investigation. Fast forward three years and on the debut episode of his new podcast (because there aren’t enough men with podcasts), Ned and Ariel reconstructed the timeline of the scandal and shared that they are no longer together romantically, much to the internet’s delight and relief. Ariel also revealed, for the first time, that she found out about her husband’s affair from a fan’s message. When asked if she’s forgiven Ned, Ariel responded, “Absolutely not. How can you forgive somebody for lying to you, for cheating on you? No.” Neither has the internet, it seems. “Him calling it ‘the scandal’ and her calling it ‘your affair’ is all we needed to know,” one person commented beneath the YouTube video, which currently has more than 100,000 dislikes compared to just over 7,000 likes. “I can’t believe he’s really interviewing her about him traumatizing her,” another wrote. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Ariel revealed the podcast episode was, in fact, her idea. Some have speculated Ariel predicted exactly how badly Ned would come across and that was part of her motivation to do the episode in the first place. “I love that she lets silence hang in the air after he says something horrible or stupid and just fully lets him feel uncomfortable,” one commented. Another added: “Oh to be a fly on the wall in the Try Guys office today.” View the full article