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5 ways to get your website ready for Google’s user experience update

Natalka Antoniuk Marketing

As if 2020 wasn’t bad enough already, Google has let us know about an upcoming algorithm update that will most definitely send SEO gurus into a frenzy. Whenever Google rolls out an update, everyone panics. It’s no wonder when a one-position drop in your search rankings means you can lose 80% of your organic traffic. This time it’s different. Usually, we have no idea when Google is planning to update its algorithm. The SEO tools are pretty good at picking up inferences that suggest an update. But in most cases, we have no time to prepare and no idea as to what the update has changed. This time, we know.

Changing suppliers: When it’s time to cut the ties

Anne Rose Business Management, Services & Risk Management

After some time in business, you’ve likely developed strong relationships with a certain set of suppliers. You know what they can do for you and when, you know their policies and procedures, and you’re comfortable that your goals and values are congruent. All well and good, but unless you periodically analyze the status of your relationships, it’s too easy to fall into complacency and make assumptions that are no longer valid. Then you risk misplaced loyalty. So, here are signs that it is time to critically assess your loyalty to long-standing suppliers, perhaps cut those ties, and look afield for new suppliers.

What is game theory, and why should it matter to your business?

Victoria Fann Business Management, Services & Risk Management

Benjamin Franklin once said, "Games lubricate the body and mind." Maybe it’s time to start seeing business as a game; at least that’s what game theorists might suggest. Developed by mathematician John von Neumann in 1928, game theory, which could loosely be defined as the study of strategic decision-making, was originally associated with a branch of applied mathematics. Now, however, it has expanded to many other areas of study. So, how is it connected with business?

A swag bag for the chief elected officer

Robert C. Harris Association Management

After installing the chief elected officer, he or she receives a leadership manual and a briefing. They are somewhat “on their own” to establish their governance style. To encourage and guide the elected president, make up a swag bag. A swag bag is an assortment of items that complement an event or experience. In this example, the executive director is gathering the items that will enhance understanding and support good governance. Here’s what’s in the president’s swag bag.

US payrolls add 638,000 jobs; unemployment rate drops to 6.9%

Seth Sandronsky Business Management, Services & Risk Management

U.S. employers added 638,000 nonfarm jobs in October, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. October’s rate of unemployment fell to 6.9% from September’s 7.9% and August’s 8.4%. The gradual employment improvement is a result of eased COVID-19 restrictions on social movement and resuming of commerce, though the pandemic remains uncontained and prospects for a vaccine available to the public are unclear. "The number of unemployed persons fell by 1.5 million to 11.1 million," according to the BLS. "Both measures have declined for 6 consecutive months but are nearly twice their February levels."

Associations and democracy

Robert C. Harris Association Management

It seems appropriate this week to highlight the connection between associations and democracy. I am sharing after learning of the death of our colleague, Belarusian association executive Vladimir Karyagin. He died November 2. He was the founder and CEO of the Republican Confederation of Entrepreneurship and the Minsk Capital Association of Entrepreneurs and Employers. His country does not encourage the formation of business associations. Belarus limits the doctrines enjoyed in the U.S., freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to petition government.

Interior designers foresee softer demand at year’s end

Michael J. Berens Interior Design, Furnishings & Fixtures

Continuing the upward trend that began toward the end of the second quarter, interior design activity rebounded to close to 2019 levels in the third quarter. Billings were up nearly twice what they had been in the spring, with demand for residential remodeling and design services leading the way. As the quarter came to a close, though, firms experienced a slowdown in new inquiries and committed projects, a signal that business may taper off slightly in the final months of the year.

HSA, FSA or HRA: What employees need to know before choosing one

Grace Ferguson Healthcare Administration

Not to be confused with health insurance, HSAs, FSAs, and HRAs are tax-favored accounts that reimburse employees for eligible healthcare expenses, as defined by the Internal Revenue Service. All three share the common goal of helping employees save on healthcare costs, but in the end, they are separate accounts. Here’s what you need to know before enrolling in an employer’s HSA, FSA, or HRA.

How key performance indicators can help boost your brand during COVID-19

Lisa Mulcahy Marketing

As a marketer, you know the importance of monitoring your brand's progress as the pandemic continues. Some great ways to achieve this are by using key performance indicators (KPIs) in brand-new and highly effective ways. Freshen up your goal-hitting strategy by looking at your KPIs through a brand-new lens — or put them to use for the very first time. Whichever way you choose to use them, it's crucial to recognize that KPIs can be an amazing growth tool for your brand. How should you be using them right now and after COVID-19? Take these essential, profit-building steps.

The pros and cons of lean manufacturing: A 2020 perspective

Bambi Majumdar Manufacturing

There is a reason why manufacturers are turning towards lean during these uncertain times. Lean manufacturing became popular during World War II when hardship and uncertainty ruled the world economy. Companies were forced to reduce costs during a time of radical change and yet had meet their customers' quality and delivery needs. So, they learned to optimize their systems and innovate, giving birth to modern-day lean manufacturing technologies. Flash forward to 2020 when an unexpected virus brought the whole world to its knees. Manufacturers have to drive efficiencies and agility in new ways by adjusting, adapting, and persevering in this environment.

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