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The scope of a project is the sum of all the work that needs to be executed. A project scope statement helps project managers define the boundaries of what will and what won’t be done. But scope statements aren’t just about work management. To write a project scope statement, you’ll need to understand the project goals, work breakdown structure and requirements, among other things. Then, once you’ve defined your project scope, you can create a scope document. What Is a Project Scope Statement? A scope statement is a document that defines all the elements of the project scope as well as assumptions, project requirements and acceptance criteria. Your project scope statement will act as the primary tool for stakeholders and teammates to reference and use as a guideline to accurately measure project success. A project scope statement is part of the scope management plan, a larger document that contains all the strategies, rules and procedures to manage your project scope. In the same way, the scope management plan is an important component of your project plan. /wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Project-Scope-Template-1.png Get your free Project Scope Template Use this free Project Scope Template for Word to manage your projects better. Download Word File What Does a Project Scope Statement Include? This detailed project document defines the boundaries of a project, outlining inclusions and exclusions. Typically, the project scope statement starts with a project description with a brief overview of its purpose and objectives. There’s also a list of tangible and intangible product deliverables as well as defined project objectives. Project acceptance criteria should also be included to determine whether the project deliverables are acceptable, while project exclusions outline what isn’t included in the project. This document outlines project constraints that may impact the project’s execution and a list of assumptions made during the planning process. Also included in the project scope statement is a detailed scope description, project boundaries, initial project risks and stakeholder acceptance criteria. Project Scope Statement Sample To better understand what the project scope statement is, we thought it’d be helpful to visualize it using our free project scope template for Word as a project scope statement example. As you can see, it has the basic project scoping information on top and then goes into a general justification for the project’s need and how it’ll fulfill that. Then we get into the main part of the project scope statement, such as what will be in scope and out of scope for the project. This creates boundaries for the project and makes clear what is essential and must be prioritized. /wp-content/uploads/2023/04/project-scope-statement-example-pt-1-600x394.png Now we get into explanations of the business objectives, such as targets that the project needs to hit in order to be successful, and the deliverables that’ll be produced over the life cycle of the project. From there, you’ll describe project exclusions, issues of time, cost, scope, risk, resources and so on that could constrain it and whatever is assumed to be done in the project. /wp-content/uploads/2023/04/project-scope-statement-example-pt-2-600x334.png Finally, you’ll go into costs. The project scope statement is going to estimate the costs and list them all, including the estimated cost, the actual cost and the cost on completion of the project. Then you can show the variance, which is the difference between the estimated cost and the actual cost. /wp-content/uploads/2023/04/project-scope-statement-example-pt-3-600x162.png How to Write a Project Scope Statement Now that we know what a project scope statement is, let’s learn how to write this important project management document. Similar to the five Ws of journalism—who, what, when, where, why—to properly outline your project scope statement, you must address these seven things: 1. Project Goals & Objectives Project goals and objectives are what define the purpose of a project. Project objectives are the smaller steps that lead to the project goals, which are broader. Start your project scope document by explaining them. These goals and objectives should be documented in a project charter, too. 2. Project Requirements Project managers and stakeholders must reach an agreement about the project scope and other project requirements such as the expected quality, risk, benefits and cost, among others. 3. Project Scope Description It might sound easy enough, but this is the most important step. Here is where you’ll define your project scope, which is all the work that needs to be done to complete the project. Here are some simple steps to help you define the project scope. Use a work breakdown structure to visualize all your project tasks, deliverables, and milestones. List what’s within the scope of your project, and what’s out of scope. Everything that’s not included in the project scope is known as project exclusions. Identify project constraints, which are all the limitations such as time or cost. Create a scope baseline to compare your actual progress to the planned project scope. Project exclusions and constraints are essential because they help establish boundaries for the project to exist. They also manage your stakeholders’ expectations/input and give your team members some creative limitations to work within. 4. Project Exclusions While it’s imperative that you define the boundaries around what the project includes from the outset, it’s also extremely important that you list what this project doesn’t include. For example: Application updates that are planned for a later project and are intentionally not included in this project Restricted or rescheduled customer access to certain support lines/product features 5. Project Constraints Project constraints are what make managing projects such a puzzle to solve. The top three constraints to managing any project are typically time, money and scope, known as the triple constraint of project management. They’re interconnected, meaning that if you pull one lever on ‘scope,’ another lever on ‘money’ or ‘time’ will also move. But there are additional project constraints that can crop up at any time, including risk, resources, organization, method, customers and more. List all the constraints you foresee in your project, so you can try to have solutions in place ready to launch when needed. 6. Project Assumptions Your project assumptions typically revolve around the very things that end up being constraints, including time, money and scope. For example, it’s in this section of your project scope document, “the front-end development team will be available during this project time period,” or, “the customer support team will receive new product training by x time.” It’s important to list these out as this won’t only tell key stakeholders what your primary resource needs are to make the project go, but it also gives you fast insight as to where your biggest risk factors lie. 7. Project Deliverables List out the deliverables your team members need to produce in order to meet business objectives. This can include the product itself, instruction and installation manuals, marketing materials, press releases, advertising campaigns and more. Your project scope statement outline helps act as a marker as you build out your full scope statement. Because while predicting the future of the project is impossible at such a high level, this is the first step to getting your project as close to the outcome as possible. By starting with the seven key statements above, you can get a head start on a successful project. Gantt charts are the workhorses of scope management. However, most Gantt chart software is woefully limited in terms of its functionality. ProjectManager has dynamic online Gantt charts that do the regular organizing, prioritizing and linking dependencies and adding milestones. But unlike other tools, you can filter for the critical path. When you set the baseline, you’re able to compare your actual progress to what you had planned. There’s no better way to monitor project scope. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/critical-path-light-mode-gantt-construction-CTA.pngLearn more! Project Scope Statement Examples Now let’s review two simple project scope statement examples to better understand how a scope statement can be used in different industries. Construction Project Scope Statement Example Defining the scope of a project is one of the most important steps in the project planning process. In construction, defining the scope helps construction project owners, contractors and subcontractors not only reach an agreement on what the construction project will look like but also create an accurate project cost estimate based on the work, materials, equipment and labor that’ll be required. Project Goals & Objectives: Build a residential construction project, an apartment complex that will generate revenue for the construction firm. Project Requirements: Architects, engineers and construction project managers will work on the construction design to determine the specifications and requirements for the project. These include quality standards for construction materials and safety requirements, among others. To have a clear understanding of what these project requirements will look like, they’ll need to create a set of construction drawings and construction documents such as blueprints, a bill of quantities and computer-assisted designs. Project Scope Description: Once there’s a design for the building, the project scope can be defined by using a work breakdown structure that’ll allow the construction management team to zoom into the types of tasks that will need to be executed, such as masonry, plumbing, electrical and other types of construction activities. Project Exclusions: One of the most important things when writing a scope statement is to state what activities won’t be executed, known as project exclusions. Clearly explaining this helps avoid misunderstandings down the road. Project Constraints: In project management, there are three traditional project constraints; time, scope and cost. However, there are even more project constraints that can affect a construction project, such as resources, quality and risk. For any construction project, there will be constraints that need to be factored in during the project planning phase such as environmental concerns, local regulations and building codes. Project Assumptions: In any project, there are assumptions that subject matter experts will draw before the construction phase begins. These are usually things beyond the control of the construction management team, such as weather conditions, availability of suppliers and the ability of the team to complete work within the planned time frame. These assumptions will be proven true or false once the work begins. Project Deliverables: As previously stated, the construction project involves different types of work such as HVAC, electrical work, woodwork and masonry, among others. Each of these construction crews or subcontractors will be responsible for producing many project deliverables throughout the construction phase. Manufacturing Project Scope Statement Example Manufacturing projects generally involve the production of physical products. This takes a series of steps needed to transform raw materials into finished goods. Here’s a simple scope statement example for manufacturing. Project Goals & Objectives: Create a finished product based on market research and the strategic planning of the company. Project Requirements: There will be internal and external requirements for the development and manufacturing of your product. In terms of internal requirements, think about the concerns of your company stakeholders who will want low production costs, high profit margins and the shortest time possible to get a return on their investment. In terms of external requirements, consider the competition in your market and the preferences of your target customers such as the quality, price and features they expect from your product. Project Scope Description: The project scope in this case will summarize the different activities that are part of the production cycle. This includes the product development process, the procurement and transportation of raw materials, parts and components from suppliers to the production line, the assembling process, quality control procedures and the distribution channels that’ll be utilized to bring the product to the market. Project Exclusions: It’s important to explain to your stakeholders exactly what features will be included in your product as well as the quality standards that will be followed. Product documentation such as a bill of materials is ideal to define your project exclusions. Project Constraints: There will be project constraints specific to manufacturing such as limited production capacity, resource availability, customer demand and machinery maintenance. Project Assumptions: Brainstorm with different departments involved with the product, such as marketing, sales, production and maintenance to draft as many project assumptions as you can get. The more cross-functional insights you can get, the better. It’s important to be ready to face multiple scenarios. A good way to do so is to use linear programming models to simulate different levels of production and customer demand. Project Deliverables: The deliverables will be all the different product development documents that’ll guide the production process, the product prototype and finally the final version of the product that’ll be launched to the market. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PM-101-eBook-banner-ad.jpg Project Scope Statement vs. Scope of Work There are a few things that project scope statements typically get confused with, including your scope of work. They may sound like similar project scoping documents, but here are the primary differences between these two. Your scope of work is an agreement of work, typically between consultant and client, that details the work plan to be performed, including, but not limited to: Deliverables/products/results Project timeline Project milestones Reports to catalog project progress While your scope of work can be time-consuming to write, it outlines the project itself and not necessarily the plan that’s to follow. The project scope statement, in turn, fulfills that role by detailing and mapping out exactly what to expect with the project plan and the project itself. Scope Statement vs. Scope Management Plan They might sound similar, and the outcome of the project may be similar, but a project scope statement is different from your project scope management plan. A project scope management plan is what follows the project scope statement, detailing the scope management process from the start to the finish of your project life cycle. Additionally, it helps define the work that must be done over the course of the project, and it controls and monitors those processes. It also documents and tracks phases to avoid scope creep and assists with project closing, including an audit of deliverables and assessing the project outcome for success factors. Your scope statement isn’t nearly as involved—it’s just the umbrella over your project scope management plan, acting as a rubric for stakeholders and team members to follow. How Does a Project Scope Statement Help a Project Team? This crucial document significantly benefits a project team in many ways. It acts as a guide that provides clarity and understanding, outlining what is included and excluded from the project. It clarifies project deliverables and connects the project to the overall business needs. A project scope statement also breaks the project into manageable tasks, making it easier to determine what resources are needed for each. All stakeholders, including the client, sponsor and team, have a shared understanding of the project scope, which minimizes disagreements. Ultimately, this document can contribute to a more successful project outcome. Tips to Write a Project Scope Statement Here are the best practices to consider as you write your project scope statement: Avoid using jargon-heavy language. You’ll be talking to multiple people across multiple departments and specializations, so keep the language consistent and clear. Involve all relevant stakeholders such as the client, sponsor, team members and end users. Their input and feedback ensure everyone agrees on the boundaries and objectives. Keep it short. Since this is a project document that’s seeking stakeholder buy-in, there will likely be plenty of editing to be done before it’s finalized, and it’ll need to be a quick reference guide for later. So, keep it simple and save the verbiage for your full project plan. Stay away from sweeping statements. You don’t want to over-commit your resources to the project before it even kicks off. Explicitly state what is out of scope to better manage expectations and prevent the project from expanding beyond its intended boundaries. Focus on deliverables instead of tasks, as the end products or services help the project team determine the best approach to complete the work. Make sure it answers questions, like: What are the long-term business benefits? What does it provide our customers that do not already exist? Is this better than what we currently offer on the market? ProjectManager & Project Scope Management Major project rollouts can be demanding on both your time and energy. Don’t let it overwhelm you before kick-off. For starters, you can use our Gantt chart software to create a WBS and get a visual on deliverables, as well as the tasks needed to complete before submitting your project scope statement. From there, you can try ProjectManager and use our task management features to get all the necessary tasks organized, prioritized and sorted by project phase. You can even ask other people for input: team members can comment directly on the tasks so communication stays organized and to the point. /wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Manufacturing-overlay-LIST-ZOOM-task.jpg Keep tabs on your resources, tasks, deliverables and more so you can keep your project on track. With ProjectManager, you can practice mapping out your project timeline by using our Gantt chart, listing out deliverables using our task list or kanban tool and inviting team members to review the timeline before submitting the scope statement to key stakeholders. Start your free 30-day trial today. The post Project Scope Statement: How to Write One With Examples appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’ve been eyeing a Nintendo Switch OLED but haven’t wanted to pay full price, you might want to check out this refurbished model (with white Joy-Cons) going for $249.99 on Woot—that’s a solid chunk cheaper than Amazon’s $289 sale-price tag. However, this price is only live for four days or until it sells out, whichever comes first. This is a refurbished unit (tested and certified to work like new), so it may show light cosmetic wear, but performance-wise, you’re getting the same console that PCMag called the “Best Gaming Console of the Year” in 2021. Nintendo Switch OLED Model $249.99 at Woot $339.99 Save $90.00 Get Deal Get Deal $249.99 at Woot $339.99 Save $90.00 Its seven-inch OLED screen is brighter, crisper, and more vibrant than the original’s LCD. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Super Mario Odyssey just pop in handheld mode—this is especially noticeable when you’re gaming outdoors or in a room with lots of natural light. There’s also a wider kickstand that actually supports the console now (so tabletop play isn’t a balancing act anymore), and a slight bump in storage (64GB instead of 32GB), though you’ll still probably need a microSD card eventually, notes this PCMag review. And while the Joy-Cons are the same in terms of function, the dock has been tweaked with a wired LAN port if you want a more stable internet connection. It’s not a performance boost under the hood—same processor, same RAM—but it feels like an upgrade if you’re using it mostly as a handheld or tabletop device. That said, this deal has a few fine-print caveats. It only ships to the 48 contiguous U.S. states (so if you’re in Alaska, Hawaii, or elsewhere, no dice), and unless you’re an Amazon Prime member, you’re tacking on $6 for shipping. The 90-day Woot limited warranty is decent enough, too. If you’ve been debating whether the OLED version is worth the extra money over the base Switch, this refurbished deal narrows the price gap enough to make it more appealing. View the full article

Nintendo just wrapped up its long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, and the experience was almost surreal. The company has avoided talking about the console for so many years, and even after it shared an early preview a few months ago, it's still odd to see Nintendo walk us through the console in such depth. Mind games aside, it's finally official-official, and we now know a lot about Nintendo's upcoming console. The Direct didn't answer every question about its capabilities, but if you're interested in the hardware specs, here's everything there is to know right now. How powerful is the Switch 2?From games to accessories, there's a lot to get excited about with any new console launch, but the biggest unknown for the Switch 2 has always been the hardware capabilities, or lack thereof: The Switch 1 was arguably already underpowered when it launched in 2017, though that didn't stop Nintendo from running with it for eight years to great success. If you were hoping the Switch 2 would take a different tack and offer a more powerful, modern gaming experience, you're probably going to be disappointed, though we don't actually know anything about the hardware itself just yet. Rumors suggest the Switch 2 is running a chip based on Nvidia' GeForce RTX 30 series, which dates from 2020, but we likely won't know for sure until someone tears the console down. The new design Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube We now know the Switch 2 has a 7.9-inch display—0.9 inches larger than the Switch OLED, and 1.7 inches larger than the standard Switch screen. That display is 1080p, as opposed to 720p on the OG Switch, but like the latter, the Switch 2 sports an LCD screen. Though that's what the rumors suggested, I'm personally a bit bummed about it, since I've been enjoying the OLED display on my current Switch. That said, I might get over it once I actually see the display in action with my own eyes—the Switch 2 supports HDR, something the first Switch did not, as well as refresh rates of up to 120Hz. The console has a redesigned kickstand, which we knew about already; It supports a greater variety of angles, which should offer more flexibility when playing in tabletop mode. Speaking of which, you can finally charge the Switch in tabletop mode, as that second USB-C port on the top of the console is indeed a charging port as well. You can also use it to connect to the new Switch 2 Camera. (Oh yes, Nintendo will now sell you a camera for your Switch 2.) There's also a microphone, which you can use for GameChat, built into the console itself (more on that later). It's noise cancelling, which should help when using it in loud environments. Switch 2 supports "3D Audio," which promises to make it seem like sounds are coming from where they would be in the game world. (If a monster roars behind you, you'll hear it "behind" you.) Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage, with options for expansion via microSD Express cards. These are different than the microSD cards supported on Switch 1, so you won't be able to use your existing Switch cards on the new console. Bummer. Dock mode mow supports 4KThe OG Switch runs at 720p in handheld mode, but when docked, can boost up to 1080p. The Switch 2 also will look better on a bigger screen: The console runs at 1080p up to 120fps in handheld mode, but can run at 4K and 60fps when docked. The dock also has a built-in fan to keep the console cool when outputting at the higher resolution. Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube The Joy-Cons can do more Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube The Switch 2's Joy-Cons are pretty different from the OG controllers. These things are larger and more rounded, which I imagine will make gameplay more comfortable. They also look different: The updated Joy-Cons are almost entirely black, save for some colorful accents. We finally know what that new C button is for: a new feature called GameChat, which lets you chat with friends directly through the Switch 2. When you press the button, you pull up the GameChat menu, which lets you control the chat experience, including turning on or muting your mic, and turning your camera on or off. Unlike the original Switch, you don't connect these Joy-Cons to Switch 2 by sliding them into the rails. Instead, their pair magnetically. Nintendo says the magnets are strong enough to not break off with force. To release them, you need to press in a button on the Joy-Cons first, similar to how you need to push the button on the existing Joy-Cons before you can slide them out of the rails. Perhaps the biggest change to the Switch 2's controllers is that they support mouse mode. That was a rumored feature that some might have dismissed at first glance, but it's true: Both the left and right Joy-Cons can be used on a table top to enable mouse controls in compatible games. There are mini games in the new Switch 2 expansion of Super Mario Party Jamboree, for example, that utilize these movement controls. New Pro Controller and GameCube controllers are on the way Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube While not a component of the Switch 2 itself, a new Pro Controller is coming, optimized for the Switch 2. It looks similar to the Switch 1 Pro Controller, but you'll notice the new C button at the bottom, white buttons at the top, an audio jack, and new GR and GL buttons on the rear handles, for remapping controls. Similarly, Nintendo is releasing a GameCube controller for Switch 2, as the new console supports GameCube games as part of its retro online library. This controller looks nearly identical to the original GameCube controller, save for some small features, including the new C button at the top, a tiny ZL button on the left, a screenshot button, a pairing button, a Home button, and a USB port on top. You'll also notice a player number indicator along the top of the controller. Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube The Switch 2 still uses game cards Credit: Nintendo of America/YouTube The Switch 2 game cards are similar to the OG Switch's, with some small differences. While they're the same size and shape, the new carts are red, not black. They also read faster. Exciting! When does Nintendo Switch 2 launch?The new console launches June 5 of this year. You can buy it as-is, or in a bundle with a digital copy of Mario Kart World—the newest game in the Mario Kart lineup. We don't know what this thing costs yet, but we will update this piece once Nintendo officially reveals that information. View the full article

Projects need a variety of resources to be executed and delivered successfully. In most cases, these resources come from a sponsoring organization or project sponsor. What Is a Project Sponsor? A Definition A project sponsor is an individual who offers financial resources to fund a project. Besides securing the project financing, a project sponsor might also propose the project’s business case, establish a project vision and set the project governance guidelines. The project sponsor is also usually responsible for the project’s return on investment and the impact it has on the organization. Once the project is approved, the project sponsor supervises the project management team from a high-level standpoint, while project managers oversee the daily project activities. /wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Project-Budget-Template-for-Excel.png Get your free Project Budget Template Use this free Project Budget Template for Excel to manage your projects better. Download Excel File Does the Project Sponsor Fund the Project? While it’s typical for the project sponsor to secure funding for the project, they aren’t responsible for funding it altogether. The sponsor has a larger role than funding, as they work to approve expenditures and allocate the necessary funds to initiate and complete the project. Think of the project sponsor as the person ensuring the project aligns with the organization’s strategic goals. Their primary role is to offer strategic direction, authority and support to ensure the project is successful. Project Sponsorship Project sponsorship can vary depending on the project and organization. For example, in a sole proprietorship, the project sponsor is the business owner who hires a project team to execute a project. In the case of an IT project for a large organization, the project sponsor might be the chief information officer who will work with an IT project manager and a group of team members. In other cases, C-level executives and senior managers can be the executive sponsors of a project. Project sponsors and project managers need a project management tool to collaborate and make sure their projects are successful. ProjectManager is robust project management software with all the tools needed to plan, schedule and track projects from ideation to completion such as Gantt charts, kanban boards and timesheets. In addition, ProjectManager has real-time dashboards, collaboration features and project reports that help project sponsors keep track of multiple projects and communicate their progress to their organizations. /wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Light-mode-reporting-CTA-e1711992940366.pngLearn more Project Sponsor Role The project sponsor is responsible for many aspects of the project, from initiating and ensuring project feasibility to tracking project progress and assessing its outcomes. The role can be broken into three parts: project vision, project governance and value or benefits realization. Establishing the Project Vision Ensures the business case is valid and aligned with the business proposition Aligns project with business strategy, goals and objectives Stays informed of project events to keep the project viable Determines the feasibility of a project Defines the criteria for project success and how it fits with the overall business Establishing Project Governance Guidelines Ensures the project is aligned with the strategic objectives of his organization Maintains organizational priorities throughout the project Offers support for project organization Defines project roles and reporting structure Acts as an escalation point for issues when something is beyond the project manager’s control Gets financial project resources and approves the resource plan drafted by the project manager Decision-maker for progress and phases of the project Setting Goals and Estimating the Project Benefits Ensures that risks and changes are managed Helps to ensure project controls and review of processes Oversees the delivery of project value Approves deliverables Evaluates project status and progress Helps with decision-making Oversees project quality throughout project phases Project Sponsor Responsibilities Project sponsors play different roles in each phase of the project life cycle. Here’s a quick overview of the main roles and responsibilities of a project sponsor for each project management phase. Project Sponsor Responsibilities During Project Initiation Project sponsors are responsible for reviewing and approving project proposals to ensure they’re aligned with the strategic planning of the organization. They might also offer input to ensure the proposal will be approved by senior leadership to help secure funding. Related: Project Proposal Template The project sponsor selects the project manager during the initiation phase, and they give that project manager a clear mandate and context for the project and set the level of their authority. During the project initiation, the project sponsor ensures the project is appropriate for the organization, offering input on the project charter and participating in the kick-off meeting. The sponsor helps with the decision-making during this phase. /wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Project-Charter-Screenshot-600x467.jpgFree download Project Sponsor Responsibilities During Project Planning For the planning phase, the project sponsor is checking to make sure the project plan is realistic and feasible. This accounts for time restrictions and whether or not the team is tasked with expectations they cannot meet. The project sponsor can help resolve issues, too, if they’re beyond the scope of the project manager. If there are other projects in play, the project sponsor is making sure they’re working together and not against each other. /wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Project-Plan-Screenshot-450x389.jpgFree download Project Sponsor Responsibilities During Project Execution For the implementation and control phases, the project sponsor should work with the project manager, but not overstep boundaries. The project sponsor evaluates the project’s actual progress against what was planned and provides feedback to the project manager as necessary. Sponsors also help the project manager and teamwork more autonomously to solve issues as they arise, while ensuring that processes are being followed. They identify underlying factors that might cause problems and celebrate the completion of milestones. /wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Implementation-Plan-Screenshot-600x187.jpgFree download Project Sponsor Responsibilities During Project Closure During the closing phase, the project sponsor is part of the post-mortem evaluation of performance and other aspects of the project. They make sure that handoffs and signoffs are done properly. Project sponsors help facilitate the discussion that decides whether a project was a success or failure. Overall, a project sponsor helps to streamline communications. They create trust and collaboration and keep problems from escalating. In terms of issues, they set up the instrument to identify problems with the schedule, cost and quality. In that sense, they’re also in charge of making sure risk management is successful. Finally, they also encourage record-keeping for historical data storage. /wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Project-Closure-Screenshot-450x368.jpgFree download Now that we better understand the project sponsor role, let’s compare it against other similar project management roles. Project Sponsor vs. Project Manager As stated above, the project sponsor differs from the project manager because the project manager is in charge of the day-to-day operations of the project management team through the planning, scheduling, execution and closing phases of a project. The project sponsor, on the other hand, supervises the project from a high-level standpoint that requires them to understand how projects align with their organization’s strategic planning. This mindset allows them to prioritize project ideas depending on which will bring the most benefits to their organization. Project Sponsor vs. Project Owner While the project sponsor is mostly concerned with securing the financial resources for a project and getting it started, a project owner is an individual who’s accountable for the overall failure or success of a project. He’ll work closely with project managers to make sure things go as planned and reports back to the project sponsor. Project Sponsor vs. Executive Sponsor While the project sponsor and executive sponsor may be terms used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between these roles, especially in large and complex organizations. The project sponsor is more directly involved in the project, acting as the person responsible for the project’s success. They provide support, resources and guidance to the team, helping to bridge the gap between the team and senior management. An executive sponsor, on the other hand, is a high-level advocate for the project, focusing on the big picture. They are more strategic-minded and ensure the project aligns with the overall organizational goals. In addition to advocating for the project at the organization’s highest levels, they help remove significant organizational roadblocks and secure executive buy-in and support. Project Sponsor vs. Project Champion There may be some overlapping characteristics between a project sponsor and a project champion, but these are two distinct roles. Typically, a project sponsor holds a formal, senior-level position within the organization. They have the authority to allocate resources, approve budgets and make essential decisions. The project sponsor can also provide resources and ensure the project delivers on the expected business value. Project champions play a more informal role in influencing the project. They may or may not hold a senior-level position, and their influence comes from their passion and enthusiasm for the project. The project champion can help motivate and inspire the project team, offering encouragement and support to move the project forward. Project Sponsor vs. Project Stakeholder The project stakeholder can be confused with the project sponsor because of the similar titles. However, their roles and level of involvement with the project are very different. A project stakeholder is anyone who’s affected by the project to some degree. There are internal project stakeholders such as a company’s board of directors, shareholders and employees and also external project stakeholders such as government regulatory agencies, landowners, etc. The project sponsor is usually part of the organization that owns the project. What Skills Should a Project Sponsor Have? Project sponsors are usually senior managers or executives who excel at leadership, financial planning, strategic planning and business management. They need the ability to think strategically and have the foresight to anticipate potential challenges and opportunities, guiding the project accordingly. Strong communication and interpersonal skills allow them to effectively communicate with various audiences, while problem-solving skills help them develop creative solutions when complex problems arise. However, to succeed in their project sponsor role, they should be experts in project portfolio management and have project management skills such as project planning, scheduling and tracking. This pairs well with a project sponsor’s ability to identify and mitigate risks, as they can spot potential issues before they derail the project. How ProjectManager Helps Project Sponsors & Project Managers Project sponsors need regular status updates. ProjectManager has a number of tools that help you get your tasks done on time and under budget, and then communicate that success to your project sponsor. Plan, Schedule & Track Projects With Gantt Charts For example, with our online Gantt chart, when team members log on and complete the tasks assigned to them, the project progress updates in real time. This helps you stay on schedule and provides a visual way to update your project sponsor on the schedule. /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/pm-gantt-screenshot.png Monitor Projects at a Glance With Real-Time Dashboards ProjectManager also has a real-time dahboard that displays live project data. These charts can be filtered to display just the data that the project sponsor wants, and then shared digitally or printed out for a presentation. If you’re meeting with the project sponsor, take your software with you. You can easily access it if any questions arise that demand a deeper dive into the data. /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Dashboard_Construction_Wide_Zoom-150.jpg Project sponsors need this sort of transparency: they feel a part of the process and can provide the guidance they’re tasked to deliver to keep the project aligned with the organization’s business objectives. Related Content There’s a lot to learn about being a project sponsor. For that reason, we’ve created blogs, guides and templates to help you better understand all the different aspects of this role. How to Start a Project Management Career 10 Key Project Roles & Their Responsibilities Top 30 Project Management Skills Top 10 Project Management Qualifications Best 12 Project Management Certifications Project sponsors are one of the many gears that drive a project to a successful end. They’re especially important as they have the power to approve or disapprove changes to keep projects aligned with business strategy. Therefore, you want to keep them well informed. If you want to integrate the project sponsor better, try ProjectManager for free with this 30-day trial. The post What Is a Project Sponsor? Roles and Responsibilities vs Project Managers appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

CCC has urged ministers to limit aviation emissions to ensure Britain meets its net-zero targetView the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: I recently interviewed for an admin role, essentially front reception, for a private hospital. The job is entirely non-clinical. After the interview, the hiring manager emailed me to say that they would like to progress my application to the next stage. In the email they included a link for me to complete some pre-employment checks. Some were standard, such as proof of identity, criminal history record check, etc. But the first step is a “pre-employment health questionnaire,” which asks me to disclose my medical history, in the form of answering yes/no to a long list of ailments, including but not limited to: • epilepsy, fits, blackouts, fainting turns, or dizzy spells • any injury or condition involving the neck, back, shoulders, limbs, etc. • any skin condition including eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis • any heart condition • any lung condition including asthma • migraines or frequent headaches • hay fever (?????) • mental illness or nervous conditions, including anxiety, depression, phobia, psychosis, or nervous breakdown None of these are relevant to the requirements of the role. I was already unsure about going further in the recruitment process due to some additional information I gleaned during the interview, but this has me feeling especially uneasy. To be clear, I have not yet received a job offer. Every person I’ve approached for an opinion has questioned the legality of it all, and frankly I’m in the same boat. I intend to email the hiring manager to withdraw my candidacy, for various reasons, but is this “health questionnaire” reason enough? Holy hell, yes. This is flagrantly illegal. (Also, eczema? Why?!) The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits employers from asking job candidates medical questions unless they are specifically related to the job and “consistent with business necessity.” Some employers do require a pre-employment physical (which I’d argue is a huge overstep for most jobs, and an outdated relic from the past). But even then, that can’t happen before they’ve offered you the job and they can’t reject you because of information revealed by the exam, unless the reasons for the rejection are “job-related and consistent with business necessity.” Oddly, the exam itself doesn’t have to be job-related and consistent with business necessity. They can ask about mental illness, STDs, hay fever, anything they want during it. They just can’t reject you over it unless they can show there’s a legitimate job-related reason to do so. (If you are thinking this is bizarre and inappropriately invasive … yes.) Also, generally the only thing from the exam that can be disclosed directly to the employer is the examiner’s conclusions about whether or not you can work with or without accommodations or restrictions. The exam results, including any medical history taken from it, needed to be treated as confidential and kept separate from other employment-related records. But you’re not even at that point. You don’t have a job offer. You’re a job candidate, not an employee or a new hire. So this is just illegal, plain and simple. It sounds like you’re planning to withdraw from their hiring process regardless. When you do, free to tell them what part of your reason was this invasive and illegal medical questionnaire. You can also report their violation of the law to the EEOC, and here’s info on how to do that. View the full article

Purchase applications reached their highest level since January despite the average 30-year fixed rate falling by just 1 basis point last week. View the full article

Google search has steadily been getting worse, but most of its free alternatives just aren't as good at surfacing the things I'm looking for. Since Google makes money through advertising, its primary incentive is to boost revenue by showing you better ads. Of late, this has resulted in a noticeable decline in the quality of my search results. That brought me to the idea of using a paid search engine instead of Google. Enter Kagi. What is Kagi?Kagi is a paid search engine developed by the people behind the Orion browser. It lets you make 100 searches for free, but after that, you can pay between $5/month and $25/month for different tiers of its service. Thanks to search giants and AI companies, the idea of paying for web searches might seem absurd at first glance, but Kagi promises an ad-and tracker-free experience, which is tempting. Is it worth it to pay for a search engine?Kagi has lots of useful features (and no ads) that make it worth the price to me. After all, when the business model is to charge people for a service, the company is incentivized to create good products. I hope that Kagi is able to continue to do so in the long run. I've been using Kagi as my default search engine for the past few months and I've begun to really like it. Up until now, all my attempts to get away from Google search have failed, but with Kagi, I've finally found a good alternative to the search giant. Here are some of my favorite ways to use Kagi, all of which have convinced me that, sometimes, it's worth it to pay for a search engine. See AI results only when you need toI am so tired of AI being forced into everything, but Kagi's approach to AI is refreshing. The search engine has kept it opt-in, which is great to see. If you use Kagi, you won't encounter AI unless you manually trigger it. To do this, just add a question mark to your search query. This will show an AI answer above the search results. Remove AI generated images from search resultsKagi allows you to block AI generated images from your search results. This is a hard feature to implement effectively because the internet is absolutely filled with low-effort AI slop nowadays, but Kagi does an acceptable job. Just go to Kagi settings by clicking the hamburger menu icon in the top-right corner of the homepage and selecting Settings. Now, go to Search > AI and enable Exclude AI generated images. Kagi says it blocks AI images on a "best-effort" basis, which means that there's a chance that some may slip through the cracks. Kagi automatically labels AI generated images in its search results and, in addition to the settings option, provides search filters that let you show only AI images or remove them altogether. In my tests, it was able to identify about 50-60% of AI-generated images in the search results, and you can always block domains that serve up too many of these kinds of results to supplement the rest. You can read more about how Kagi implements AI image filters in its documentation. Try search filters to fine tune resultsWhen you search for something on Kagi, you'll see a list of suggested filters to help you fine tune your query right above the first result. While these buttons are displayed prominently, there's also a drop down menu right next to them with more options. These filters allow you to look for results from a different region, sort results by relevance, or by the number of trackers on the website, or recency, plus filter results by time period. Plus, there's an advanced search tab that lets you further refine results, if that's not enough. Hide clickbait from videosKagi also lets you search for videos, and it has two interesting features to reduce clickbait. First, you can replace clickbait thumbnails with screenshots from the actual video. Second, you can change titles to lower case or sentence case. This removes awful thumbnails and those annoying all caps titles from your results, making it easier to find useful videos. To enable these features, go to Kagi Settings > Search > General. Scroll to the bottom of the page and you'll see Video Search Settings. Click the drop-down menus next to the two options here and select what you need. Create lenses to refine results Credit: Pranay Parab If you want to limit your search results to a handful of trusted sites, try using Kagi's "search lenses." Each of these lenses lets you filter out unwanted results by focusing only on some sites. By default, Kagi has a few interesting lenses such as Small Web, which limits results to smaller websites, and Forums, which searches only forums. This allows you to surface some hidden gems that you may not otherwise find. You can also create your own lens by going to Kagi Settings > General > Lenses > Create New. I've created one to search for posts on websites that I write for and assigned a bang to it (!lh). Now I just need to append !lh to any search to look for results on these websites, which helps me find my own articles much faster. Tweak results to your likingYou can raise or lower the rankings of various domains in Kagi's search results (although only for your account). This feature also lets you see specific domains less, or block them entirely. To tweak this, simply go to Kagi Settings > Search > Personalized Results > Add Domains. You're also free to view Kagi's Domain Leaderboard to see which sites its users are raising, lowering, or blocking. Learn all the keyboard shortcutsOpening Kagi's website and pressing the ? key will reveal a full list of all supported keyboard shortcuts. Learning a few of these can speed up your workflow significantly, and I highly recommend doing so. I really like using !bang operators, which allow you to perform searches faster. For instance, you can append !v to any search term to look for videos. Similarly, !i does an image search, !n does a news search, and so on. I use two other keyboard shortcuts regularly: Shift-~ (tilde) to open the Kagi Control Center, and / to quickly return to the search bar and type another query. Open links in the same tabIt annoys me when websites open links in a new tab without asking me if I want to do the same. By default, Kagi is no different in that regard, because its default setting is to open links in a new tab. However, you can go to Kagi's General Settings page (Settings > Search > General) and disable Open Links in a New Tab to change this preference. Use redirects to reduce annoyancesKagi has a useful Redirects feature that lets you replace certain URLs with preferred alternatives. You can use this to bypass Google AMP links and go directly to the source website, or to open old Reddit every time you click a Reddit link in Kagi. This feature is under Kagi Settings > Search > Advanced > Redirects. It's worth going through Kagi's Redirects support page to learn how to make the most of them. Use the Privacy Pass for anonymityIf you want a more private Kagi search experience, you can use its Privacy Pass feature. Since Kagi requires you to be logged in to use the product, you can't actually do anonymous searches on the service. To get around that limitation, you can try the Kagi Privacy Pass, which authenticates your account using a token system and keeps your searches anonymous. The install process varies by browser, and this feature isn't supported in some browsers (such as Safari). There are many more advanced features that you can try in Kagi, but these are the ones that I find the most helpful. But as a bonus before I go, I'll also mention Kagi Translate, which is a good alternative to Google Translate. It displays alternative translations below each result, and if you hover over the translation, it explains what is different about it. This lets you pick the best variant of a sentence to share with others, or makes it easier to understand the context of a quote in another language. View the full article

An Internal Revenue Service division that helps authorize the release of tax transcripts used in lending through form 4506-C is tied to core functions. View the full article

Want to turn a video file into an MP3? Or any video into an MP4? If you have PowerToys installed on Windows, you don't need a third-party application—a quick copy-and-paste will do the job. We've talked about Powertoys, the longstanding Windows utility that offers all kinds of customizations to the operating system. One of the many tweaks added is the Advanced Paste feature, which can convert copied text into other formats. This is triggered by using the keyboard shortcut Windows-Shift-V to paste, instead of the usual Ctrl-V. A pop-up window asks which format you'd like to paste your text as—Markdown, HTML, and JSON are all offered. You can optionally set this up to use AI, useful if you want to convert text to a format not offered. It's very useful for anyone who regularly needs to convert text from one format to another. But now it can convert more than just text. A new feature means that Advanced Paste can turn any copied audio or video file into either an MP3 or an MP4 file. To use this feature, you need at least version v0.89.0 of PowerToys—open the application and check the General tab to make sure. Credit: Justin Pot If you have the feature, all you need to do is copy a video or audio file in File Explorer, then attempt to paste it using the keyboard shortcut Windows-Shift-V. Note that if you "Copy as Path," the feature won't be offered, as you haven't copied the file itself. There are two conversion options: "Transcode to MP3" and "Transcode to MP4." The MP3 option will extract the audio of any media file, including a video, and save it as an MP3. The "Transcode to MP4" option converts the video to use the H.264 video codec and the AAC audio codec. Now, there are use cases where this won't work—if you want to create an AAC audio file, for example, or convert a video to some other format. In those cases, software like Handbrake is essential. But it's nice to have a simple option built into PowerToys; give it a try next time you want to turn a video into an audio file. View the full article

Unpacks the basics—and the big misses—of capital gains planning. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

Unpacks the basics—and the big misses—of capital gains planning. Quick Tax Tip With Art Werner CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Art Werner. View the full article

This article is posted with permission from our partner Hiscox Insurance. Learn more about Hiscox at: https://freelancersunion.org/liability Starting a business comes with a slew of important decisions, not the least of which is choosing the right business structure. Whether you're considering a DBA (Doing Business As), an LLC (Limited Liability Company), or a sole proprietorship, each option has its own advantages and caters to different business needs. From liability protection to tax implications and administrative duties, understanding these differences is crucial for your success. Keep reading to see what sets these structures apart and discover which one might be the best fit for your business venture. Understanding business structures: LLC, sole proprietorship, and DBAChoosing between a LLC, sole proprietorship, and DBA hinges on your needs for liability protection, tax preferences, and simplicity in administration. A DBA is simply a name under which you conduct business, offering no legal protection but allowing brand flexibility. An LLC provides limited liability protection, safeguarding personal assets against business debts, and it offers tax flexibility, allowing profits and losses to pass directly to owners' personal tax returns. In contrast, a sole proprietorship is the simplest form, where the business is indistinguishable from the owner, making setup easy but exposing the owner to personal liability for all business obligations. See more details on each structure below. Details on LLCsWhat is an LLC?An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a popular business structure due to its flexibility and the protection it offers its owners from personal liability. This means that personal assets such as a car, house, or savings remain protected in the event the business incurs debt or is sued. LLCs are perfect for small to medium-sized businesses and combine the pass-through taxation of a partnership or sole proprietorship with the limited liability of a corporation. Learn how to set up your LLC in this beginner's guide. Who needs an LLC?Choosing an LLC is advantageous if you seek liability protection while keeping the administrative simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership. It's ideal for those who plan to own property or assets under the business that could become liabilities, like restaurants, rental shops, or manufacturing units. It's also suitable for businesses that plan to raise investment without incorporating. Details on sole proprietorshipsWhat is a sole proprietorship?The simplest form of business is a sole proprietorship. It refers to a business owned and operated by a single individual without any separation between the business and the owner. You are entitled to all profits and are responsible for all your business's liabilities, losses, and debts. This structure is straightforward to establish, with minimal paperwork and few legal costs. Who needs a sole proprietorship?This structure is suited for individual self-employed contractors, consultants, or small business owners who prefer to start with minimal bureaucratic overhead and tax simplicity. If you're engaged in low-risk businesses and wish to test your business concept before formalizing the structure, a sole proprietorship is a straightforward starting point. Details on DBAsWhat does DBA stand for?A DBA stands for “doing business as.” It is not a business structure, but rather it allows companies to do business under a secondary name. If you’ve just opened a business, the first thing you would do is choose your business structure. Once you choose a business structure, you may choose to register under a secondary name in which to do business. In that case, you would file for a DBA. If you don’t register your business under a specific structure, you are automatically labelled a sole proprietorship. This leads many sole proprietors to file as DBAs, which we’ll discuss shortly. Who needs a DBA?A DBA is most commonly used by sole proprietorships and partnerships. Since sole proprietorships and partnerships are not separate legal entities from their owners, they need to file a DBA unless they want to do business under their own name. For example, if Jerry Brown opens a sandwich shop and wants to do business under Jerry’s Sandwich Shop, he will have to file a DBA; otherwise, the business name will default to Jerry Brown.Other business structures like corporations or LLCs can also file DBAs, but it is not as common. Where DBAs and LLCs (Limited Liability Company) overlapAs you explore your options, you may wonder how does a DBA work under an LLC? LLCs already must register their business name when they open the business because LLCs are separate entities from the business owner. You may also be wondering: Do I need a DBA for my LLC? With an LLC, you can still file a DBA, but it’s not required. The most common example of owners of an LLC filing a DBA is if they are expanding a new part of their business and want to call it something more specific to that new function. For instance, a construction company in New York that is opening offices in California may tack on ‘West’ to the end of their name to signify that this is the area of the business that handles West Coast contracts. So, Wagner Construction, for example, would become Wagner Construction West for marketing purposes. Legally, it would be Wagner Construction DBA Wagner Construction West. How to file for a DBAEach state has different requirements when it comes to registering for a DBA, but you can generally expect to pay anywhere between $10 to $100 in filing fees. (The exact cost may also depend on your type of business.) Once you have completed the registration, you can legally operate under the secondary name and do things like open a bank account and take on new contracts under your new name. When filing a DBA there are some name restrictions based on the type of business you are. LLCs must include ‘limited liability company’ or LLC at the end of their chosen name. Sole proprietorships and partnerships cannot use words like corporation or limited liability in their name. Insurance essentials for DBAs, LLCs, and sole proprietorsRunning a business comes with its fair share of risks—from liability issues to property damage and beyond. That's why securing the right insurance isn't just a precaution; it's a vital part of your business strategy. Regardless if you operate as a DBA, LLC, or sole proprietorship, having the right type and amount of insurance ensures that unforeseen circumstances don't jeopardize your hard work. Protect your business, safeguard your assets, and keep your operations smooth, no matter what comes your way. Get a quote today for small business insurance. View the full article

This article is posted with permission from our partner Hiscox Insurance. Learn more about Hiscox at: https://freelancersunion.org/liability Starting a business comes with a slew of important decisions, not the least of which is choosing the right business structure. Whether you're considering a DBA (Doing Business As), an LLC (Limited Liability Company), or a sole proprietorship, each option has its own advantages and caters to different business needs. From liability protection to tax implications and administrative duties, understanding these differences is crucial for your success. Keep reading to see what sets these structures apart and discover which one might be the best fit for your business venture. Understanding business structures: LLC, sole proprietorship, and DBAChoosing between a LLC, sole proprietorship, and DBA hinges on your needs for liability protection, tax preferences, and simplicity in administration. A DBA is simply a name under which you conduct business, offering no legal protection but allowing brand flexibility. An LLC provides limited liability protection, safeguarding personal assets against business debts, and it offers tax flexibility, allowing profits and losses to pass directly to owners' personal tax returns. In contrast, a sole proprietorship is the simplest form, where the business is indistinguishable from the owner, making setup easy but exposing the owner to personal liability for all business obligations. See more details on each structure below. Details on LLCsWhat is an LLC?An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a popular business structure due to its flexibility and the protection it offers its owners from personal liability. This means that personal assets such as a car, house, or savings remain protected in the event the business incurs debt or is sued. LLCs are perfect for small to medium-sized businesses and combine the pass-through taxation of a partnership or sole proprietorship with the limited liability of a corporation. Learn how to set up your LLC in this beginner's guide. Who needs an LLC?Choosing an LLC is advantageous if you seek liability protection while keeping the administrative simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership. It's ideal for those who plan to own property or assets under the business that could become liabilities, like restaurants, rental shops, or manufacturing units. It's also suitable for businesses that plan to raise investment without incorporating. Details on sole proprietorshipsWhat is a sole proprietorship?The simplest form of business is a sole proprietorship. It refers to a business owned and operated by a single individual without any separation between the business and the owner. You are entitled to all profits and are responsible for all your business's liabilities, losses, and debts. This structure is straightforward to establish, with minimal paperwork and few legal costs. Who needs a sole proprietorship?This structure is suited for individual self-employed contractors, consultants, or small business owners who prefer to start with minimal bureaucratic overhead and tax simplicity. If you're engaged in low-risk businesses and wish to test your business concept before formalizing the structure, a sole proprietorship is a straightforward starting point. Details on DBAsWhat does DBA stand for?A DBA stands for “doing business as.” It is not a business structure, but rather it allows companies to do business under a secondary name. If you’ve just opened a business, the first thing you would do is choose your business structure. Once you choose a business structure, you may choose to register under a secondary name in which to do business. In that case, you would file for a DBA. If you don’t register your business under a specific structure, you are automatically labelled a sole proprietorship. This leads many sole proprietors to file as DBAs, which we’ll discuss shortly. Who needs a DBA?A DBA is most commonly used by sole proprietorships and partnerships. Since sole proprietorships and partnerships are not separate legal entities from their owners, they need to file a DBA unless they want to do business under their own name. For example, if Jerry Brown opens a sandwich shop and wants to do business under Jerry’s Sandwich Shop, he will have to file a DBA; otherwise, the business name will default to Jerry Brown.Other business structures like corporations or LLCs can also file DBAs, but it is not as common. Where DBAs and LLCs (Limited Liability Company) overlapAs you explore your options, you may wonder how does a DBA work under an LLC? LLCs already must register their business name when they open the business because LLCs are separate entities from the business owner. You may also be wondering: Do I need a DBA for my LLC? With an LLC, you can still file a DBA, but it’s not required. The most common example of owners of an LLC filing a DBA is if they are expanding a new part of their business and want to call it something more specific to that new function. For instance, a construction company in New York that is opening offices in California may tack on ‘West’ to the end of their name to signify that this is the area of the business that handles West Coast contracts. So, Wagner Construction, for example, would become Wagner Construction West for marketing purposes. Legally, it would be Wagner Construction DBA Wagner Construction West. How to file for a DBAEach state has different requirements when it comes to registering for a DBA, but you can generally expect to pay anywhere between $10 to $100 in filing fees. (The exact cost may also depend on your type of business.) Once you have completed the registration, you can legally operate under the secondary name and do things like open a bank account and take on new contracts under your new name. When filing a DBA there are some name restrictions based on the type of business you are. LLCs must include ‘limited liability company’ or LLC at the end of their chosen name. Sole proprietorships and partnerships cannot use words like corporation or limited liability in their name. Insurance essentials for DBAs, LLCs, and sole proprietorsRunning a business comes with its fair share of risks—from liability issues to property damage and beyond. That's why securing the right insurance isn't just a precaution; it's a vital part of your business strategy. Regardless if you operate as a DBA, LLC, or sole proprietorship, having the right type and amount of insurance ensures that unforeseen circumstances don't jeopardize your hard work. Protect your business, safeguard your assets, and keep your operations smooth, no matter what comes your way. Get a quote today for small business insurance. View the full article

A trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third film in James Cameron’s galactically successful series, starts by delivering on the title’s promise. Rivers of lava cascade through the forests of Pandora, reducing it to charred rubble. Soon, the score swells to epic proportions as the hulking, Smurf-colored Na’vi survey their ruined territory and swear vengeance on an unseen enemy. Released back in January, this trailer already has 3.5 million views. Not bad, considering it contains not one second of footage from the actual film. Whenever Cameron and 20th Century Studios do release the official first trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, which is headed to theaters in December, they certainly won’t release it through “KH Studio,” one of two video channels YouTube just demonetized to crack down on a larger issue. The fake Avatar trailer, which relies on some truly abysmal AI, is part of a scourge of similar videos designed to trick movie lovers into thinking they’ve found a first look at an upcoming flick. Crafty editors with access to Adobe Premiere take existing footage from previous media, splice in a dash of AI, and—voilà—a steady stream of clicks and views from eager film buffs. Google any major movie coming out later this year, and whether an actual trailer for it is already out there or not, the search will surface an impostor or two. Want a fake first glimpse of Edgar Wright’s upcoming reboot of The Running Man? It’s available on a channel called T Studio Movie’s (sic). How about a pirated preview of the next Conjuring movie? It can be conjured up on one called Skynet Studios. The most successful operators out there, though, appear to be the two that have newly attracted YouTube’s ire: KH Studio and Screen Culture. YouTube’s move comes as a result of Deadline investigating the fake movie trailer epidemic. The publication reports that movie studios such as Warner Bros. Discovery were quietly lobbying YouTube to send any ad revenue from those fake movie trailers their way, but YouTube opted instead to suspend heavyweights Screen Culture and KH Studio from its partner program. Apparently, these channels violated the video giant’s policies forbidding content doctored in such a way that it misleads viewers. “The two impacted channels were correctly suspended from the YouTube Partner Program following violations of our monetization policies,” says Jack Malon, Policy Communications Manager at YouTube. “Content isn’t eligible for monetization that uses metadata to deceive viewers into believing the content is different from what it actually is. For example, this could include a video title or description that alleges an official affiliation with a company. These suspensions are unrelated to any Content ID, or other copyright, enforcement.” The two channels’ differing approaches highlight the level of variety in this strangely popular space. Screen Culture has 1.4 million subscribers and offers three tiers of membership. As Deadline reports, the channel’s founder employs a team of a dozen editors, whose fake movie trailers are viewed so often, they occasionally outrank real trailers in YouTube’s search results. Screen Culture trailers are often slick and authentic-looking at first glance, mirroring the cadence and sound cues of typical Hollywood trailers with impressive alacrity. Only in the moments when the AI gets a touch shoddy, or the exposition extra disjointed, is it clear that these are forgeries. The other newly demonetized channel, KH Studio, is a bit goofier. Its more amateurish trailers feature robotic AI-voice narration and graphics that look like ancient video game cutscenes. Beyond fake trailers for soon-to-be-blockbusters like the next Avatar, it also offers trailers for movies that will never be released, such as Interstellar 2, a Millie Bobby Brown-led remake of Nightmare on Elm Street; and Titanic 2: The Return of Jack. The trailers on both channels offer warnings to viewers that these are merely “concept trailers.” The warnings come buried underneath the view count and a flood of hashtags, though; by the time the average viewer sees them, they will have already clicked on a link and inflated the view count that bit further. Although KH Studio claims in the warning that its videos are “created solely for artistic and entertainment purposes,” the channel’s trailers don’t seem to have enough artistry or originality in their use of borrowed material to meet YouTube’s monetization standards. They appear more like vehicles for siphoning off search traffic for notable movie titles. While the output of neither of those channels may rise to the level of art or originality, there’s a whole cottage industry of bait-and-switch trailers operating around them on YouTube. Channels like Blend FX and Dynatic Films publish videos about movies like the upcoming Naked Gun reboot starring Liam Neeson and simply add the word “trailer” in the title, guaranteeing at least some search-based traffic. The creators of those trailers can’t even bother cobbling together a semi-coherent narrative to bolster their deception. Both KH Studio and Screen Culture are entitled to appeal YouTube’s decision. If they lose, we may never know what the trailer for Eraserhead 2: Revenge of the Lady in the Radiator looks like. If they win, all the other fake trailers may just be a sneak preview of what’s to come. View the full article

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

You’ve probably played around with Demographics in your Google Ads campaigns, but have you experimented with Detailed Demographics? This audience targeting technique is a powerful tool for reaching your ideal customers – and excluding your not-ideal customers. This article will discuss: Basic vs. Detailed Demographics: What’s the difference? What type of Detailed Demographics are available in Google Ads? How to use Detailed Demographics in your campaigns Sample use cases for Detailed Demographics Basic vs. Detailed Demographics: What’s the difference? Your basic demographic options in Google Ads are: Age. Gender. Parental status. Household income. In most campaign types, you can exclude certain demographics or make bid adjustments with manual bid strategies. Detailed Demographics are a type of audience targeting that goes one layer deeper. For example, while demographics let you choose parents vs. not parents, detailed demographics let you zoom in on “parents of infants,” “parents of toddlers,” “parents of teens,” etc. What type of Detailed Demographics are available in Google Ads? Google Ads offers a range of detailed demographic options, including: Parental Status: for example, Parents of Infants or Parents of Teens Marital Status: Single, In a Relationship or Married Education: for example, Current College Student or Advanced Degree holder Homeownership Status: Homeowners or Renters Employment – Company Size, Industry: for example, Technology Industry It’s important to remember that most of this data is inferred by Google. If you’re curious about what Google thinks it knows about you, you can check “My Ad Center.” How to use Detailed Demographics in your campaigns You can add Detailed Demographics to your Search, Shopping, Display, Demand Gen, and Video campaigns by going to Audiences, keywords and content > Audiences > Edit audience segments. You can also add Detailed Demographics to your Performance Max audience signals. Finally, you can exclude Detailed Demographics from Search and Display campaigns, since they do not (yet) use the Audience Builder workflow. Sample use cases for Detailed Demographics While there are infinite scenarios where leveraging Detailed Demographics might help your campaign performance, here are a few examples from my coaching practice to inspire your strategizing. Targeting specific demographic segments: If you sell products or services that appeal to a specific demographic, such as homeowners or college students, Detailed Demographics can help you reach them more effectively. B2B targeting: If your target customers are other businesses, you can use company size and industry to reach the right decision-makers. Excluding irrelevant demographic segments: If your products or services aren’t suitable for certain demographics, you can exclude them to avoid wasting ad spend. For example, if you install inground pools, it probably makes sense to exclude renters. Complementing or substituting Life Events targeting: Detailed Demographics can sometimes serve as a substitute or complement to life events targeting. For example, instead of targeting people who recently got married, you could target people who are currently married. Instead of targeting people who are about to graduate college, you can target current college students. In my experience, Detailed Demographics are most effective when used in conjunction with Search or Shopping campaigns. Because they are quite broad, I rarely use them on their own for Display, Demand Gen, or Video campaigns. Similarly, I rarely add them to Performance Max audience signals. Think of Detailed Demographics as a helpful layer on top of your other content or audience targeting strategies in Google Ads. This article is part of our ongoing weekly Search Engine Land series, Everything you need to know about Google Ads in less than 3 minutes. Every Wednesday, Jyll highlights a different Google Ads feature, and what you need to know to get the best results from it – all in a quick 3-minute read. View the full article

Refunds still are the only positives. By Beth Bellor Go PRO for members-only access to more Beth Bellor. View the full article

Refunds still are the only positives. By Beth Bellor Go PRO for members-only access to more Beth Bellor. View the full article

‘Supranational’ vehicle would purchase for participating states at more favourable borrowing rates View the full article

If you ask me, graphic design peaked in 2001 with Windows XP's bright blue taskbar and green start button. Every UI design choice since was made by cowards. OK, you might not share my passion for the Windows XP taskbar, which is fine (I guess). But maybe you miss the simple grey aesthetic of Windows 2000, or the comforting orb of Vista. Whatever your taskbar preference, you can bring it back with RetroBar, a free, open source application that replaces the taskbar in Windows 11 with something better. (It will also work if you're running an older version, including Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10.) To get started, download the application from Github. There's an installer and a portable application—use whichever you prefer. Note that Windows may prevent you from running the application because of an unknown publisher, which is a commonsense safeguard, but you can click the Run anyway button should you choose to use the software regardless. Once you do, you will immediately see the classic grey taskbar of yore. Credit: Justin Pot You can right-click an empty area in the taskbar and then click Properties to bring up the options menu, which allows you to choose from a wide variety of taskbars. (The one you're probably looking for is named "Windows XP Blue.") Credit: Justin Pot Obvious aesthetic benefits aside, the Windows XP taskbar does work differently from the Windows 11 taskbar in a few ways I find helpful: Every window is represented on the taskbar, not just each application. The launcher icons, to the left, are kept seperate from the currently open windows. You can also change the size of the taskbar to make more room, just like you could back in the day. You can customize what happens when you click the clock—I prefer seeing the calendar. If you decide you want the Windows 11 taskbar back after all, you can right-click an empty space on the taskbar and choose Exit Retrobar. You can always launch the application again, the next time you decide to reject modernity and embrace tradition. View the full article

Company loses crown of world’s best-selling electric-vehicle maker to China’s BYDView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The Max streaming app has always benefitted from being the home for HBO hits like Game of Thrones, The White Lotus, and The Last of Us, but the streamer has also produced some quality original programming. Hacks is a buzzy award winner, and shows like Peacemaker and The Sex Lives of College Girls have drawn eyeballs toward the former "HBO Max." More recently, The Pitt is burning up social media, and Spanish-language import When No One Sees Us is drawing critical acclaim. Given the volume of streaming content out there, and the number of shows Max has already produced, there are some great choices that might have flown under your radar. In our current streaming era, in which good shows aren’t just canceled but erased from existence (farewell, Raised by Wolves), it never hurts to take a moment to consider the slightly less talked-about shows that are equally worthy of your attention. (The shows found below are all Max originals, which means they were either initially produced for and/or are currently distributed exclusively by the streamer, at least in North America. Stuff that originally premiered elsewhere in the U.S., like Adult Swim's recent buzzy hit Common Side Effects, don't qualify.) The Pitt (2025 –, renewed for a second season) E.R.'s Noah Wyle is back in scrubs as Dr. Michael "Robby" Rabinavitch, senior attending at the Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Hospital’s emergency room. Robby’s mentor died during the height of COVID-19, and he’s only just recovering from his traumatic experiences. It's gonna be a long day, though: Each episode represents a single hour of a tumultuous 15-hour shift, peppered by tragedies including a mass shooting. It feels like medical dramas are a dime a dozen, but this one is quite a bit more interesting, and a lot buzzier, than most. You can stream The Pitt here. Hacks (2021 –, fourth season coming April 10) After getting canceled over a tweet, 25-year-old writer Ava (Hannah Einbinder) struggles to get her career back in order, reluctantly taking a job for Deborah Vance (Jean Smart)—a comedy trailblazer who remains popular with an older Vegas crown, but whose career is largely on autopilot. They're an entirely mismatched pair, but their chemistry is ultimately explosive, with Jean Smart doing some of the best work of her incredible career as the (often) deeply unlikeable Vance, and Einbinder more than holding her own in return. It's funny, bitchy, and surprisingly moving when it wants to be. You can stream Hacks here. When No One Sees Us (2025, first season ongoing) A distinctive police thriller imported from Spain, When No One Sees Us stars Mariela Garriga (Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning) as a Cuban-American special agent of the U.S. Army, and Maribel Verdú (Pan’s Labyrinth) as a Spanish Civil Guard sergeant, both investigating an apparent death by extremely violent suicide on an air base during Holy Week. It's a twisty-turny mystery, but the performances and the emphasis on character over plot make it an absolute standout. You can stream When No One Sees Us here. Trixie Motel (2022 – 2024, two seasons) A pick-up in its second season from Discovery+, Trixie Motel poses that all-important question: how would a drag queen with disposable income run a hotel? In the first season, RuPaul alum Trixie Mattel and then-partner David Silver buy a run-down Palm Springs motel and turn it into a campy desert destination; in the second the two buy and decorate a new home. Celebrity guests stop by to help the pair drag up their accommodations. It's fluffy, flashy, and fun. You can stream Trixie Motel season one here, and Drag Me Home, the second season, here. Doom Patrol (2019 – 2023, four seasons) Max’s early DC show was originally ported from the now-defunct DC Universe streamer (past and future episodes are now Max-exclusive), a largely forgotten effort. Thank goodness it survived; though ended after four seasons, it was an uncharacteristically bold and freaky entry in the superhero canon. Nearly indescribably weird, the show includes characters like the non-binary Danny the Street (a literal street), paranormal investigators the Sex Men, Imaginary Jesus, and orgasm-generating body builder Flex Mentallo—while also grounded in some really excellent, frequently emotional character work from the entire cast, including Brendan Fraser, Matt Bomer, Michelle Gomez, and Timothy Dalton. It’s also very queer and sex positive, making it a standout among the usually chaste and straight world of superhero cinema. You can stream Doom Patrol here. Full Circle (2023, miniseries) Creator Ed Solomon (Now You See Me) and director Steven Soderbergh navigate a big cast and a labyrinthine plot involving murder, kidnapping, corporate espionage, and magic—the title refers to a murder ritual conducted by a Guyanese crime lord (played by CCH Pounder) that involves drawing a literal circle in New York, centered on the scene of a murder. There are a few too many balls in the air at any given time, but watching the chaos unfold is addictive. Pounder is joined by Zazie Beetz, Claire Danes, Timothy Olyphant, and Dennis Quaid. You can stream Full Circle here. Scavengers Reign (2023, one season) A qualified recommendation for this one, only because it was cancelled after its first season with plenty left unresolved. Nevertheless! It's a smart, impressively voice acted, and beautifully animated sci-fi epic following the stranded survivors of the crashed interstellar cargo ship Demeter 227. The web of natural life on the world on which they find themselves is unusually complex, an the rules they're used to don't seem to apply. The creators are shopping a second season around, but it seems likely we'll be left with a few questions—which is maybe not the worst thing. You can stream Scavengers Reign here. The Flight Attendant (2020 – 2022, two seasons) Kaley Cuoco plays hard-living (i.e. alcoholic) flight attendant Cassie Bowden, who, in the first episode, wakes up in a Bangkok hotel room with no memory of the night before. Which could be a good thing or a bad thing, given that she's sharing a bed with a dead passenger from her last flight. Afraid to call the police, she tries, on her own, to piece together the increasingly convoluted memories of that last night. Impressively twisty-turny, but also with a hallucinogenic sense of fun, it's an impressively unique show that earned several Emmy nominations, including for a great Cuoco. Despite generating plenty of buzz and seemingly good numbers, it was canceled after two seasons—which will become something of a theme with Max. You can stream The Flight Attendant here. The Sex Lives of College Girls (2021 – 2025, three seasons) Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet) is an endlessly naïve scholarship student; Bela (Amrit Kaur), is an aspiring comedy writer on the make for the hottest guys; Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott) is an overachieving athlete and senator’s daughter; Leighton (Reneé Rapp) is a closeted sorority girl. They're randomly assigned to room together as freshmen at the fictional Essex College in Vermont, a mismatched quartet exploring young adulthood together. Created by Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble, the comedy-drama isn't nearly as salacious as its title suggests: There's sex, for sure, but like Sex and the City before it, the funny and queer-friendly show is more about female friendship. You can stream The Sex Lives of College Girls here. Jellystone! (2021 – 2025) The Hanna-Barbera cartoon pantheon has been largely dormant in recent decades, but this is a fun revisit, with the titular town serving as home to dozens of characters from back in the day, led by Mayor Huckleberry Hound, Yogi Bear (now a doctor at Jellystone Hospital), Augie Doggy, Jabberjaw, Top Cat, and dozens more, with out-of-towners like The Jetsons and Space Ghost popping in now and again. The show's silly, anarchic style is definitely not a one-for-one match to the source material, but it's not a terrible thing that the show is focused on appealing to modern kids rather than their parents (or grandparents, at this point). It's fun for that older elementary age group. You can stream Jellystone! here. Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai (2023 –, second season ongoing) It was weird, but kinda cool, that the original Gremlins movie was marketed toward kids, given that the plot turns on moments like a Mogwai blowing up in a microwave and an anecdote about someone's dead dad mouldering in a chimney dressed like Santa Claus. That all being said, this animated prequel is legit kid-friendly, even if it doesn't shy away from the Looney Tunes-esque style of the live-action movies. It also takes the awkward Orientalism of those movies and makes it a virtue: Sam Wing (played by Hollywood legend Keye Luke in Gremlins) is, here, a 10-year-old boy who meets Gizmo and is then forced to join him on a journey through the Chinese countryside, sometimes encountering mythical creatures. The stacked voice cast includes Izaac Wang, Ming-Na Wen as Fong Wing, B. D. Wong, and the great James Hong. You can stream Secrets of the Mogwai here. The Other Two (2019 – 2023, three seasons) Heléne Yorke and Drew Tarver stars as a couple of meandering siblings whose lives are turned upside down when their younger brother becomes a viral sensation. The show has a lot of fun dissecting modern pop culture, and, though it has a sweet side, it’s some of the best cringe comedy you'll find on Max. As class satires go, it never quite achieved Succession levels of obsession, but deserves a bit more love. You can stream The Other Two here. Tokyo Vice (2022 — 2024, two seasons) Your tolerance for Ansel Elgort may vary (given assault allegations), but he stars here alongside always-welcome Japanese actors Ken Watanabe and Rinko Kikuchi as a young journalist who becomes embedded with veteran detectives in Tokyo’s vice squad circa 1999. The show pays tribute to both the glitzy and wonderfully seedy aspects of the title city, while also working as an effective crime drama set in a very different context from more typical America-set shows. You can stream Tokyo Vice here. Rap Sh!t (2022 — 2023, two seasons) Issa Rae follows up Insecure with the story of socially conscious Miami rapper Shawna (Aida Osman), who winds up selling out, at least in her own eyes, when she teams up with her friend Mia (KaMillion), whose popular OnlyFans brings the new rap group a built-in fanbase. Meanwhile, Shawna’s boyfriend Cliff (Devon Terrell) has to come to terms with the fact that Shawna’s more commercial career path might put his dreams of political success in danger. Like Insecure, it’s deeply funny, but also has plenty to say about friendship and ambition between young Black women. You can stream Rap Sh!t here. The Big Brunch (2022, one season) Finally: a reality show for people who love brunch (some of whom, I’m informed, might even be straight). Schitt’s Creek’s Dan Levy hosts the cooking show involving ten chefs competing for the money to make all their dreams come true (to the tune of $300,000)—but only if they can make the perfect brunch. The show avoids the stressful elements of a Gordon Ramsey-type competition, while being quite a bit funnier than a GBBO. It’s a solid entry in the reality-cooking world with a unique style, though its one-and-done single season (at least so far) will be a pro or a con depending on how hooked you find yourself. You can stream The Big Brunch here. It’s a Sin (2021, miniseries) Russell T. Davies (Queer as Folk, Doctor Who) revisits the 1980s through the story of a group of friends living in London during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis. The miniseries brings an impressive cast to bear on a story that tracks them through the early days of queer liberation through the developing menace of a disease that no one in the broader world was willing to talk about, much less do anything about. You can stream It's a Sin here. Peacemaker (2022 –, renewed for a second season) A funny and violent bright spot in the wildly convoluted onscreen world of DC Comics, Peacemaker spins out of James Gunn's snarky 2021 entry The Suicide Squad, with John Cena reprising his role. Having survived the events of that film, he's recruited once again by the United States government to join a team trying to stop mysterious butterfly creatures inhabiting human hosts. It's got the same bloody comic tone of the movie, but adds just enough dimension, and an emotional arc, to the the jingoistic superheroes' story that it's easy to root for him, even as his self-awareness remains limited. It also seems to be a bit of a bridge between the old DC movie universe and the upcoming, James Gunn-lead one—the upcoming second season will follow the events of the new Superman movie, and there's also a Viola Davis-lead Waller spin-off in the works. You can stream Peacemaker here. South Side (2019–2022, three seasons) Creators/writers Bashir Salahuddin and Diallo Riddle (who also have parts in the series) brought a unique style to their three-season sitcom set in Englewood—the close-knit cast and production crew (Bashir’s brother, Sultan, plays one of the leads) give the show a familial vibe. it follows two mismatched friends (Sultan Salahuddin and Kareme Young) trying to find success while running a rent-to-own store amid a widely diverse ensemble, and trying to find some kind of accord with the local PD. You can stream South Side here. Through Our Eyes (2021, miniseries) An original production from Sesame Workshop, each episode of the docuseries deals with a distinctive issue facing children, and each is directed by a different talented and acclaimed director. The four current episodes engage with kids with incarcerated parents, families displaced by climate crises, the children of veterans relying on caregivers, and those without permanent housing. The series offers a rare perspective, and takes an appropriately straightforward and honest approach without feeling the need to manipulate our emotions. It’s a miniseries at the moment, although there might be more coming. You can stream Through Our Eyes here. Equal (2020, one season) The well-done docuseries pulls in some star power to tell stories around some of the most significant events in LGBTQ+ history during the 20th century. The combination of talking head-style discussions alongside scripted reenactments is particularly effective. You can stream Equal here. Julia (2022 – 2023, two seasons) I’m increasingly drawn to stories of people who made it later in life, probably unrelated to being solidly middle-aged while having accomplished (as yet) nothing of note. Sarah Lancashire plays Julia Child magnificently, capturing much of her distinctive style and patter, and the show has a lot of fun with the production woes of early public television. Even though it has a light touch, the show’s also an important reminder of the importance of a woman like Julia, a woman in her 50s who become an unlikely trailblazer as not just an on-camera personality, but also as an innovative producer. Another one that deserved more than two seasons, but still delightful. You can stream Julia here. Expecting Amy (2020, one season) Not a stand-up special (although it does interweave with the development of one), but instead, another in Max’s impressive and (fairly) diverse docuseries offerings. What might otherwise be a vanity project (a doc about comedian Amy Schumer’s complicated pregnancy) is buoyed by a real sense of honesty, and by discussion of her husband Chris’s autism diagnosis around the same time. It probably requires a bit of an appreciation for Schumer going in, but it’s a fairly fascinating journey. Titans (2018–2023, four seasons) There’s an almost relentless “edginess” to an awful lot of the movies and shows based on DC superheroes, feeling at times as though they’re apologizing for the source material. Titans is right there, but with swearing, fucking, and some fairly intense violence. What it has, though, that some of the movies lack, is an addictive quality that mimics the feel of getting really into a good long-form superhero comic book storyline—but more swearsy. You can stream Titans here. Young Justice (2010–2022, four seasons) This is the little cartoon that could: canceled way back in 2013, picked up by the defunct DC Universe streamer for season 3, and then getting a final season as a Max original (those first three seasons are also on Max). There’s a reason it has hung in there, even without the name recognition of some of DC’s other stuff: It’s an impressively animated series that draws from any number of comics sources while scrupulously developing its characters. Unlike a lot of cartoons (or comics), it’s also allowed its characters to grow up over the years and introduced new generations of heroes along the way. You can stream Young Justice here. Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults (2020, one season) It’s not always an easy watch (the ending episode, not surprisingly, is downright harrowing), but it’s not a terrible time to revisit the story of the Heaven’s Gate UFO-worshipping cult and its leader, Marshall Applewhite. The group had come to believe strongly in ideas that are fundamentally goofy, with deeply tragic consequences. Which is all sounding a little familiar lately. The doc makes use of never-before-released footage. You can stream The Cult of Cults here. Station Eleven (2021, miniseries) The miniseries, based on the Emily St. John Mandel novel, was released at either the best time or the worst possible time, the story of a flu pandemic landed on the former HBO Max right in the middle of the first phase of COVID. The show follows Kirsten Raymonde, a young stage actor whose performance in a production of King Lear is cut short by the onset of a virus with a 99% fatality rate. We meet Kirsten at the outset of the pandemic, and then visit her 20 years on, still an actor, in a world very much changed. It’s a slow burn, but ultimately, the series makes a moving case for the power of art, even (or especially) in moments when survival is on the line. You can stream Station Eleven here. Harley Quinn (2019– , renewed for a sixth season) Kaley Cuoco voices Harley in this very adult cartoon series starring the anti-hero who made her debut in Bruce Timm and Paul Dini’s Batman: The Animated Series way back in the day. Don’t expect traditional superheroics—it’s very much a zany comedy, but it’s often funny and delivers some solid queer representation. A Kite Man spin-off is in the works. You can stream Harley Quinn here. The Staircase (2022, miniseries) Going beyond the standard true crime tropes, The Staircase stars Colin Firth as Michael Peterson, the real-life novelist convicted of murder after his wife, Kathleen, was found dead at the bottom of the title’s staircase. Uniquely, the miniseries deals not primarily with the events surrounding the death, but instead the aftermath, and the filming of a French documentary during Peterson’s legal battle. The result is a smart look at the media’s impact on crime and punishment in our true-crime obsessed world. You can stream The Staircase here. Love & Death (2023, miniseries) The story of 1970s housewife Candy Montgomery has been told several times before, most memorably via a 1990 TV movie and a Hulu series from just last year. Here, Elizabeth Olsen gives a stellar performance as the woman who kills her lover’s wife, maybe in self-defense? It hits plenty of the expected true crime notes, but Olsen’s performance is top-tier, humanizing the lead character. You can stream Love & Death here. Search Party (2016–2022, five seasons) This very dark comedy became an HBO Max/Max original following its cancellation by TBS—but it still counts, kicking off with a Veronica Mars vibe involving Alia Shawkat’s Dory and her hunt for a missing college friend. The largely narcissistic characters are hunting for meaning and attention as much as for the missing friend, while the show grows weirder, funnier, and more interesting with each season, becoming a convincing chronicle of the absurdities of modern millennial existence. You can stream Search Party here. Our Flag Means Death (2022 – 2023), two seasons I think everyone probably knows about this one already—at least those of you who are extremely online—but the swashbuckling pirate comedy isn’t only wonderfully goofy and funny, it also features, unexpectedly, one of the most believable and compelling gay romances of the last several years, so I just wanted to give it a little extra love. Max cut it short after a mere two seasons which, boo! But that doesn't mean it's not worth diving in. You can stream Our Flag Means Death here. View the full article

Glen Powell has done it all on screen—from battling storms in Twisters to trading banter in the rom-com Anyone but You. But his latest role? It’s a little unexpected: reinventing the American pantry. The actor is stepping into the food world as a cofounder of Smash Kitchen, a new condiment brand hitting Walmart shelves nationwide on April 2. The line includes ketchup, mustard, mayo, and BBQ sauce—all made with better-for-you ingredients like organic tomatoes and mustard seeds, cage-free organic eggs, and none of the usual suspects like high-fructose corn syrup or artificial additives. The goal? To bring all your favorite condiments under one cleaner, tastier brand. “We’re trying to give you the flavor that you love and you’re used to, with more integrity,” Powell tells Fast Company. “When you look at these legacy brands, they don’t evolve because they don’t have to evolve.” The Powell-backed brand is leaping into the $12 billion U.S. condiments category, which is projected to grow an additional $1 billion by 2029, according to market researcher Mintel. Unlike other food categories like coffee, soda, and yogurt where upstart brands have made inroads, Unilever’s Hellmann’s mayonnaise, Kraft Heinz’s namesake ketchup, and McCormick’s French’s mustard are the market leaders and have easily retained those positions for decades. “We have a tremendous sense of loyalty to these brands,” says Matthew Barry, food and beverage insight manager at researcher Euromonitor International. “People are really attached to Hellmann’s and Heinz ketchup.” Smash Kitchen is the first business venture that Powell has announced outside of his career as an entertainer, which began with his big screen acting debut in the 2003 film Spy Kids 3: Game Over. Powell has since racked up dozens of film and TV credits and recently formed his own production company called Barnstorm. The creation of Smash Kitchen, Powell says, was inspired by his affinity for hosting dinner parties and barbecues in Los Angeles and his home state of Texas. “My family life and my favorite memories always evolved around the kitchen,” says Powell. “Food is how we show our love.” Smash Kitchen is backed by venture capital firm Collaborative Fund, an early investor in Olipop, Sweetgreen, and Blue Bottle Coffee. Powell’s co-founders Smash Kitchen CEO Sameer Mehta, a cofounder of dog food brand Jinx and former VP of strategic partners at mattress company Casper, and President Sean Kane, who co-founded consumer goods purveyor the Honest Company. The trio were brought together through a mutual connection with venture capital fund Iconiq Capital founder Divesh Makan. “Ultimately, you shouldn’t have to choose what’s better for your budget and and better for your health, and Glenn is super excited to be able to bring that to not only his family, but people everywhere,” says Kane. Smash Kitchen’s pitch to shoppers is not only a focus on a “cleaner” nutritional label that avoids high fructose corn syrup and tomato concentrate, but prioritizing the creation of condiments that taste good. Retailers, Mehta says, told the team that “people aren’t picking up condiments for health benefits. They are picking it up for the flavor.” The more distinctive flavors from Smash Kitchen, like hot honey BBQ sauce and spicy mayo, may have greater success luring shoppers, as those flavor profiles aren’t as intrinsically linked to childhood memories as the classic Heinz ketchup. “We’ve seen hot honey get household recognition within the pizza category,” says Mehta. “Nobody has infused it with ketchup. It’s a flavor profile that we know consumers are wanting.” “There’s no hot honey sauce that is so emotionally resonant and widespread among the American consumer,” says Barry. “It’s open to disruption. Anyone could be the hot honey sauce of America.” Smash Kitchen’s range is priced slightly above what larger rivals command. The classic 20-ounce ketchup has a standard list price of $3.97 versus Heinz’s $3.48 at Walmart.com. Smash’s yellow mustard is priced at $3.47, compared to $2.54 for French’s. Barry says inflation-wary shoppers remain particularly sensitive to grocery prices, but may be willing to spend a bit more on a “cleaner” ingredient label. The organic claim, he adds, has lost some luster because it has become so ubiquitous across the grocery store. “If you can be a little fun treat for people, a little moment of happiness and joy at a reasonable price point, that’s really prominent right now,” says Barry. View the full article

From answering complex queries to generating creative content, large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, and others are becoming integral to how users seek and consume information online. This technology presents a paradox for brands and website owners: the potential for new avenues of traffic generation alongside the growing challenge of zero-click results. The initial excitement surrounding LLMs often focuses on their ability to simplify workflows and provide instant answers. However, for businesses that rely on website traffic for leads, sales, and brand visibility, the implications are far more nuanced. While LLMs can act as powerful referral engines, directing users to relevant websites, they also have the capacity to satisfy user intent directly within their interface. This could potentially diminish the need for a website visit altogether and, thus, challenge a brand’s traditional presence online. The promise of referral traffic: A new discovery channel Many LLMs are designed to provide comprehensive and accurate responses. They also cite their sources, offering users the chance to explore topics further. This presents a significant opportunity for brands to be discovered by users who might not have found them through traditional search engine results. Imagine a user asking an LLM for recommendations on the best sustainable coffee brands. After processing vast amounts of information, the LLM might list several brands and provide links to their websites. This allows the user to explore the brands’ offerings, read reviews, and make a purchase – all in one place. This method replaces the traditional experience of clicking through several links to compare options. Similarly, a user researching a medical condition might receive a summary from an LLM and links to reputable healthcare websites for more detailed information. The key difference here lies in the user’s intent. Unlike traditional search, where users actively type in keywords, LLMs respond to more natural language queries. This enables LLMs to uncover brands and resources that might be less visible in standard search results. This can be especially beneficial for niche businesses or those offering highly specific products. As LLMs become more integrated into various platforms and applications, the potential for referral traffic could expand significantly. For example, imagine an LLM embedded within a social media platform recommending products based on user conversations or a virtual assistant suggesting relevant services based on calendar entries. These scenarios highlight the potential for LLMs to act as a new and dynamic discovery channel for brands. Dig deeper: LLMs are disrupting search – is your brand ready? Tracking referral traffic growth and market shifts After analyzing the referring traffic over the past 12 months, I found steady growth in LLM-driven traffic. Indexed against the average from the previous year (1 = average), referral traffic from LLMs has increased eightfold since March 2024. This surge is largely due to the growing use of LLM tools and the continued inclusion of links, both as citations and direct links. However, the data revealed an unexpected dip in December, contradicting expectations for strong holiday retail traffic growth. Shifts in LLM market share and traffic insights Looking at the mix of LLMs driving traffic, there are a few notable takeaways: ChatGPT has dominated referrals since August. Prior to that, referral traffic wasn’t smaller – it was due to different referral URLs from OpenAI and Microsoft, eventually shifting to ChatGPT (chatgpt.com vs. chat.openai.com). This migration shows the complicated relationship between OpenAI and Microsoft, which runs Bing. While Perplexity’s referral traffic appears smaller, it has doubled over the past year. However, ChatGPT’s growth has been much faster, and it now has a larger market share. Referral links from Meta are nearly nonexistent. The data shows only one month with double-digit referring traffic numbers. While Meta has significant volume due to LLaMA being integrated across its apps, there hasn’t been much referral traffic from its platforms. Dig deeper: 6 easy ways to adapt your SEO strategy for stronger AI visibility Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. The zero-click conundrum: Satisfying intent within the LLM While all this referring traffic is critical to understand, there’s another side to this: the rise of zero-click results. This has been the goal of LLMs for some time and has long existed in traditional search through Google’s answer boxes, featured snippets, or Knowledge panels. However, with LLMs, the impact is even more pronounced. LLMs are designed to provide comprehensive answers directly within their interface. If a user asks for the capital of France, the LLM will likely respond with “Paris” without linking to a website. Similarly, if a user requests a summary of a recent news article, the LLM can generate a concise overview, negating the need to visit the original source. This capability, while incredibly convenient for users, poses a significant challenge for websites that rely on traffic for revenue, lead generation, or brand building. If the LLM can effectively answer a user’s question or fulfill their request without requiring a click, the website misses out on a potential visitor. This is why you must develop a new approach beyond click-through traffic. LLMs are designed to get to an answer and not take users away from the chat interface. That makes visibility within these models even more critical in the decision-making process, even if there’s no direct attribution. Dig deeper: Why SEO is your best defense against declining organic traffic Navigating the new landscape: How your brand can adapt As LLMs change how users discover content, refining your approach is key to staying competitive. Here’s how to adapt. Focus on expertise and original research While LLMs can synthesize information, they often rely on existing content. When you offer unique insights, original research, and deep expertise in your niche, you’ll likely be cited as a source and potentially earn referral traffic. Optimize for natural language queries Understanding how users phrase questions in natural language is crucial for content creation. Optimizing content to answer these types of queries directly could increase the likelihood of an LLM citing your website. Build brand authority A strong brand reputation can increase the chances of an LLM recommending your website as a trusted source. Focus on building credibility and thought leadership within your industry. Explore new forms of engagement As LLMs evolve, new ways to interact with them may emerge. This could include developing specialized content formats or leveraging APIs to provide information directly to LLMs. Monitor LLM performance and attribution Actively track how LLMs reference your content and try to understand the attribution of any traffic you receive from these sources. This will help refine strategies over time. Dig deeper: How to segment traffic from LLMs in GA4 Consider the user experience Ultimately, the goal is to provide value to the user. Even if a user doesn’t immediately click through to your website, the information provided by the LLM may lead them to consider your brand or seek out your products or services later. That interaction can still be valuable. Dig deeper: How to evolve your organic approach for the rise of answer engines Embracing the evolution LLMs are fundamentally changing how users find and consume information. While referral traffic is rising, zero-click results challenge traditional website engagement. Brands that create authoritative content, optimize for natural language queries, and monitor attribution will be best positioned to remain visible – even when clicks aren’t guaranteed. Adapting to this shift isn’t optional – it’s essential for long-term digital success. View the full article