#Conversion Optimization for Nonprofits

[atlantathecity]

Nice! Urbanize Atlanta reports that the stalled effort to convert the 41 Marietta office building in Downtown to 120 apartments is alive again!

And now the development includes 36 units priced for households earning 80% AMI (area median income) or less, thanks to the city's Atlanta Urban Development (AUD) nonprofit.

AUD has partnered with developer Blue Lofts to resurrect this project after it went into foreclosure last year, following some initial work.

This is good news for Downtown, which desperately needs more housing, and also good news for the whole concept of office-residential conversion in a district where offices have been emptying out in recent years.

Fingers crossed that this happens as planned. I've learned to temper my optimism for all adaptive reuse plans in Downtown since many end up folding. Please let this one work out!

[tunedtostatic]

Life update (not good)

And asking for help though I don't think anyone I know on Tumblr will be able to help with this, but I am trying to cast a wide net.

After my "there's a good chance things might actually be okay-adjacent soon but I'm scared it won't and hope it will" post I was really hoping I would have a "Things worked out!" update, but unfortunately this. Right now my life is not close to worst it's been (this year and last are still the best years in a long while!) but things have been fucked up.

I don't know how to say "i don't scare easy" without it sounding like country-western braggadocio but but the last few years have included living with creeps, living out of my car, various varyingly obnoxious brushes with death, and this is a more five-alarm fire level than average, even though still hopeful and still better than things are for many people for sure.

My internal project this past month and a half has been working on getting myself to 100% believe that it is 100% possible for me to die, which is not something I /didn't/ before - I wrote a will in 2019, and I had a long conversation with a friend in 2022 about the possibility of dying, obviously it's been on my mind - but i think it's just really hard for human beings (or at least me) to /really/ feel like it's possible to die in whatever dangerous situations we're in because we're just kind of neurologically wired for a certain amount of optimism in the face of death. At least the last few years it's not like there is one specific monster with big teeth chasing me, so it's easy to be like, well, statistically I /probably/ won't die from that or this or the other - like, if [medical stuff, living on the road, violence, hospital-acquired covid if I end up in hospital now that most hospitals aren't taking covid precautions here, &c] together means I have a 3x or 4x or 20x higher risk of dying than the average person in their late 20s, then people in our late twenties still don't die very often so mathematically that's still just multiplying three or four or twenty times /a really low number/ in the first place.

Statistically I will probably live...and neurologically I'm wired to say "I'm gonna make it :)"…but that means that this month and a half (have to do a double take because it's only been a month and a half! somehow!) I've had to make it a little internal project to continuously remind myself that it is 100% possible for me to die and I need to take everything that seriously, accordingly.

So many people, victim services nonprofits, &c over the years have come down so much more on the side of "Look into my eyes. You WILL get through this." than be worried about me, so I'm the one who has to take this on and remind myself it is 100% possible for me to die, so that I can take everything exactly as seriously as it needs to be taken, and also try to kick my own ass into hiding in shitty coping mechanisms less.

I have things SO much better than many people (!!) (which i know is a Thing Everyone Says out of free-floating guilt when they're struggling, but also, it's definitely true in this instance, and i don't want y'all to worry about me disproportionately). Things are bad but I also do know what I'm doing somewhat, after handling crises for so many years, and I also have alotalot of luck, which I am incredibly and unspeakably grateful for.

(Speaking of the positive, a lot of the current situation was kicked off by an especially scary medical scare last month that wrecked a lot of shit, and very luckily, most of the scariest medical stuff has been ruled out! That's one reason to be optimistic! Though I need to then bring it back to "Do /not/ let this let you take your eye off the ball, dude, everything else is still fucked up and it is still possible for you to die so Take This Seriously.")

The thing is, most of the pieces that made me hopeful at the beginning of last month when I was posting here are /still here/ ready to be put together. I had to drop out of my class this semester but I'm still in good standing in the certificate program I started and if I can fix the rest of my life enough I can start another class this summer. I /have/ a not super lucrative but decent and interesting paid side hustle, I have volunteering and helping others I can do, I have writing I can do, as long as I can get things a decent amount of unfucked. I am still jonesing to get on here and give y'all the Good Update.

I've avoided nonprofits and hotlines for the last year and a half, since my last go-round ended up doing more harm than good, but I sucked it up and told myself maybe it would be better this time and it was not, so this week I need to call another, unrelated victim services nonprofit to tell them the nonprofit I contacted last month did [deeply awful stuff] so that I can have a paper trail for /that/ so /that/ doesn't make the original problem worse, which is kind of the opposite of what one is looking for when one calls a nonprofit "for help."

(I don't want to dissuade people from seeking help from support services - I'm having mental images of someone reading this and not getting the help they need because I talked shit about nonprofits - but I guess I /would/ say, I /do/ want people to go in knowing that there are people who will help, and there are people who can't help (which depending on the context might be fair and there is nothing they can do), and there are also people who will demean you or not believe you or promise things they don't deliver. And I could write a post on how to try to stay safe when interfacing with nonprofits that supposedly represent "help" and "safety" and often do not, but sometimes absolutely do, but I am evidently still learning myself, so I will just say come in with backup plans, and if they hurt you it was not your fault.)

I spent my childhood in what I call "the casserole world" - culturally it was normal for friends or family to bring each other a casserole or help with errands when something hard happened and my specific context was functional enough that people would do that kind of thing. So!! Asking for help on here, if anyone has a spouse or friend or uncle who likes helping with logistical things like reading hundreds of dentist office reviews to find dentists who both accept Medicaid and are not evil incarnate or online discount clothing shopping - I don't really expect to find that kind of help here (back at it with the statistics), so in a way it's more that I don't want to cut myself off from the possibility. If 9 out of 10 times "just ask for help :)" isn't actually a thing, that means that you still need to, at least sometimes, cautiously ask the metaphorical tenth time when you find a place where that's not going to hurt someone else and it seems plausible. Like I said, I'm trying to cast a wide net!

(Editing for typoes and to add a Medicaid explanation for those not in the U.S.: Medicaid is free insurance e.g. free healthcare for people who make very little money, and it is free to the patient, but many doctors don't accept Medicaid, and the ones that do tend to be, uh. Bad. Or booked out for months, if they are not bad.)

[unschool]

5 Best Books for Digital Marketing

Business guidance is everywhere these days, and it may not seem that books offer much more than what’s freely available online. Books offer something special regarding robust tips that last for years. Experts have written tips and tricks about their domain. Therefore, the best books for digital marketing pass along time-tested strategies for taking your company or nonprofit to the next level.

Moreover, you can also get hands-on experience on jobs with a digital marketing certificate from Unschool. This program consists of 6 months, followed by a career in digital marketing. This digital marketing course with a job guarantee helps the learners get well-versed in the first four months; the rest is covered for preparing to crack a job. Enroll now!

Pick up a copy and line your bookshelves with the kind of knowledge you can refer back to again and again.

Ready to learn more about the best books on digital marketing? Then let’s get started!

1. They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today’s Digital Consumer (Marcus Sheridan, 2019)

You can’t have a digital marketing conversation without realizing the impact of Search Engine Optimization(SEO). This book employs relatable stories from the author’s career journey to explain how content marketing can make a big difference in any digital platform. While it is good to read books and getting a digital marketing course with an internship adds a cherry on the cake. 

This book discusses why quality content matters and how to use it as part of an organic, authentic digital marketing strategy minus all the icky keyword stuffing. If you plan to build your career in content writing, enroll in an online course certification from Unschool. 

2. Digital Marketing in an AI World: Futureproofing Your PPC Agency (Frederick Vallaeys, 2019)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is blowing up the world today, with worries that algorithms may fully replace humans in creating digital content. Author Vallaeys acknowledges the problems in this book by stating that it’s powerful but not the perfect solution. His breakdown of what AI is best used for and how it helps PPC marketers do their jobs better is both reassuring and practical. 

Moreover, you can get hands-on knowledge from online courses with certifications from Unschool in digital marketing. Our industry experts have shared their experiences according to the in-demand trends. So what are you waiting for? Enroll now to enhance your knowledge. 

3. Marketing Made Simple: A Step-by-Step StoryBrand Guide for Any Business (Donald Miller, 2020)

You may have already heard of Donald Miller, a best-selling author with notoriety in the branding sphere. His latest book takes that initial momentum into an actionable checklist for building sales funnels. Even if you’re familiar with funnels, the principles behind them are worth reviewing. Moreover, a step-by-step workbook lets you brainstorm and strategize before executing those principles. Hence the readers get a nuts-and-bolts look at creating a marketing plan, including email and an engaging website. 

4. Join or Die: Digital Advertising in the Age of Automation (Patrick Gilbert, 2020)

Despite the book’s somewhat threatening title, Join or Die is a detailed look at how automation transforms digital marketing jobs. Gilbert refers to Google Ads in most case studies but highlights the adaptability of the mindset to almost any paid media platform where automation tools exist.

While agencies and marketers may be hesitant to embrace automation, it’s already here, and this book acts as a primer to how it all works. In addition, it explores why the most successful marketers adopt it to make their campaigns more relevant and scalable. Therefore get on board with the digital marketing job guarantee program from Unschool. 

5. One Million Followers, Updated Edition: How I Built a Massive Social Following in 30 Days (Brendan Kane, 2020)

Who wouldn’t want a million followers? While social media has more to offer apart from having zillions of followers. It’s widely accepted that the more followers, the easier to get your message out there. The book covers all the pros and cons of his journey to a million fans. Those already familiar with social media jargon and wanting to know how big brands make a splash will find it intriguing. Well, you can learn more about how to increase your online presence on social media platforms via online certificate programs. 

How to get on a digital marketing job program

If you’re excited to learn more about digital marketing, it can be tempting to jump into all these ideas simultaneously. Therefore, start exploring a digital career and what skills, online courses with certificates or more are required. Remember, digital marketing is a vast concept incorporating anything a brand does to reach its target audience online. With so many options, it’s easy to spread yourself thin. Consider upgrading your knowledge with online course certification with an internship in the same domain.  Are you just getting into digital marketing and need some guidance on where to start? Enroll in the digital marketing job program from Unschool to help you learn if digital marketing is the right career.

[nancy-resma]

How to Remove Color from an Image: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

In a world dominated by colorful visuals, there’s an understated elegance to grayscale imagery. Removing color from an image—whether for artistic, professional, or practical purposes—has become an essential skill in photography, design, and marketing. Grayscale visuals emphasize details, textures, and contrasts, creating a timeless appeal.

This comprehensive guide explores the art of desaturation, from understanding its applications to mastering the techniques and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re a professional seeking clarity or an artist pursuing simplicity, removing color can transform your creative vision. Let’s dive into the why, how, and where of removing color from images.

Why Remove Color from an Image?

Removing color serves various purposes across creative and professional fields. Artists and photographers often desaturate images to focus on light, shadow, and texture. The absence of color directs attention to composition and detail, evoking stronger emotional responses.

For businesses and designers, grayscale images offer clarity. By stripping away unnecessary distractions, monochromatic visuals highlight key messages. This approach is particularly useful in branding, where minimalism enhances recognition. Grayscale visuals are also effective in wireframes, allowing designers to concentrate on layout without the interference of color.

From an accessibility perspective, grayscale images improve usability for individuals with color blindness. Approximately 8% of men and 0.5% of women globally experience some form of color vision deficiency. Providing color-free visuals ensures inclusivity and enhances user experience.

Methods to Remove Color from Image

There are three primary methods for removing color from an image:

Manual Editing:

Manual editing involves using software to adjust the saturation or convert the image to grayscale. This method provides precise control over the final output, allowing for adjustments in brightness and contrast to enhance details.

Automated Techniques:

Automated tools are ideal for quick edits or batch processing. These solutions often use AI to optimize the grayscale conversion, ensuring high-quality results without requiring extensive manual input.

Coding Approaches:

For large-scale operations, developers use programming languages to automate desaturation. This method is commonly applied in web or app development, where consistency and efficiency are paramount.

Choosing the right method depends on your objectives, technical skills, and the tools at your disposal. For e-commerce professionals, a product photography app can simplify the process, ensuring uniformity across catalogs.

Key Tips for Effective Desaturation

Preserve Details: Ensure textures and essential elements remain sharp after desaturation.

Adjust Brightness and Contrast: Post-conversion adjustments can significantly enhance the image’s impact.

Test Different Compositions: Experiment with grayscale to see how it alters the subject’s focus and mood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple tasks like removing color can lead to errors. Avoid these common pitfalls:

Overexposure: Excessive brightness can wash out details, making the image appear flat.

Underexposure: Insufficient light results in loss of clarity and depth.

Ignoring the Context: Ensure the grayscale image aligns with its intended use, whether for print, digital, or accessibility purposes.

Benefits of Grayscale Images in Different Industries

Grayscale imagery offers unique advantages in various fields:

Marketing: Simplified visuals are more impactful and memorable, driving better engagement.

Education: Monochromatic diagrams and charts reduce distractions, aiding comprehension.

Design: Grayscale wireframes focus on structure, making them an essential tool for prototyping.

Practical Applications of Grayscale Images

Case studies highlight the versatility of grayscale imagery:

A nonprofit campaign using monochromatic visuals saw a 20% increase in engagement, emphasizing the simplicity and emotional appeal of grayscale.

Social media posts with desaturated backgrounds had 15% higher click-through rates compared to their colorful counterparts.

Conclusion

Removing color from an image is both an art and a science. By understanding its purpose, mastering techniques, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create impactful grayscale visuals. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or marketer, the power of monochromatic imagery lies in its ability to transform the way we perceive and communicate through visuals. Experiment with these methods and discover how grayscale can elevate your work.

[themarketingspecialist]

Top 10 SEO agencies for nonprofits

Are you looking for the best SEO agencies to boost your nonprofit’s online presence and attract more support? Nonprofits often face the challenge of standing out in the crowded digital landscape while staying within a limited budget. That’s why partnering with an SEO agency that specializes in nonprofit organizations can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 SEO agencies that excel in helping nonprofits achieve their goals. From enhancing your visibility to driving more donations and volunteers, these agencies are equipped with the tools and expertise to ensure success.

Pearl Lemon

Pearl Lemon is a leading SEO agency renowned for its tailored strategies and exceptional results for nonprofits. Their team specializes in helping organizations boost their search rankings, increase website traffic, and achieve measurable growth. With expertise in keyword research, content marketing, and technical SEO, Pearl Lemon is dedicated to creating strategies that align with your nonprofit’s mission. They also offer free resources and consultations to help nonprofits take the first step towards SEO success. Website Contact: pearllemon.com

Fiverr SEO Services

Fiverr offers a unique platform where nonprofits can find affordable and customizable SEO services from skilled professionals worldwide. It’s a great option for smaller organizations with tight budgets. The platform connects you with SEO experts who can help with on-page optimization, backlink building, and content creation tailored to your needs. Website Contact: fiverr.com 3. Search Influence

Search Influence is a full-service digital marketing agency with a focus on nonprofit SEO. Their team delivers data-driven strategies to improve search visibility and engagement. They emphasize local SEO, ensuring your organization reaches the right audience in your community. Website Contact: searchinfluence.com 4. Boostability

Boostability is a trusted name in the SEO world, offering scalable solutions for nonprofits of all sizes. They focus on affordable SEO services, including keyword optimization, mobile SEO, and link building. Their team provides monthly reports to track progress and ROI. Website Contact: boostability.com 5. Straight North

Straight North specializes in helping nonprofits convert website visitors into active donors and volunteers. Their SEO campaigns are tailored to your organization’s goals, with a focus on driving engagement and maximizing online impact. They also offer pay-per-click (PPC) services for integrated campaigns. Website Contact: straightnorth.com 6. Big Leap

Big Leap is known for its transparent and ethical SEO practices. They’ve worked with various nonprofits to deliver sustainable results through strategic content creation, link-building, and technical optimization. Their approach focuses on building trust and long-term growth. Website Contact: bigleap.com 7. Thrive Internet Marketing Agency

Thrive Internet Marketing Agency helps nonprofits expand their digital footprint with comprehensive SEO services. Their offerings include competitor analysis, keyword strategy, and website optimization to improve visibility and engagement. Thrive also offers social media marketing to amplify your message. Website Contact: thriveagency.com 8. Nonprofit Megaphone

Nonprofit Megaphone specializes in helping organizations maximize their impact through Google Ad Grants and SEO. Their team ensures that your website and content are optimized to drive traffic and conversions. They offer a hands-on approach, making it easy for nonprofits to see results. Website Contact: nonprofitmegaphone.com 9. Higher Visibility

Higher Visibility is an award-winning agency with extensive experience in nonprofit SEO. Their team creates customized campaigns to help organizations achieve top rankings and drive meaningful engagement. From website audits to ongoing optimization, they provide end-to-end support. Website Contact: highervisibility.com 10. SEO for Nonprofits As the name suggests, SEO for Nonprofits focuses exclusively on helping charitable organizations thrive online. Their services include keyword optimization, blog content strategy, and analytics tracking. They offer affordable packages to fit nonprofit budgets without compromising on quality. Website Contact: seofornonprofits.com

Conclusion

Choosing the right SEO agency for your nonprofit can significantly impact your ability to reach more supporters and fulfill your mission. Each of the agencies listed here brings unique strengths and expertise to the table. Whether you’re looking for affordable options or comprehensive strategies, there’s an agency to match your needs. Start your journey to better online visibility today and watch your nonprofit flourish in the digital world.

[nishakrishnan1996]

Mastering the Art of Digital Marketing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Digital marketing has become an indispensable part of business growth, combining creativity, data-driven strategies, and cutting-edge technology. For those aspiring to thrive in this field, it’s essential to take a structured approach to mastering its various aspects. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a skilled digital marketer.

For individuals who want to work in the sector, a respectable Top Digital Marketing Course in Chennai can give them the skills and information they need to succeed in this fast-paced atmosphere.

1. Build a Strong Foundation

Digital marketing isn’t just about posting on social media or running ads—it’s a multifaceted field. To succeed, start with a solid understanding of key concepts, including:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Paid Advertising (Google Ads, Facebook Ads)

Email Marketing

Content Marketing

Analytics and Data Interpretation

Focusing on these core areas will help you grasp the full scope of digital marketing.

2. Explore Free and Paid Learning Resources

To master digital marketing, invest in continuous learning. Start with free resources, such as Google’s Digital Garage and HubSpot Academy, and gradually explore paid certifications from platforms like Coursera and Udemy. Books and podcasts by industry experts are also excellent for gaining deeper insights.

3. Develop Hands-On Skills

Theoretical knowledge alone won’t make you a great digital marketer. Gain real-world experience by:

Launching a Personal Project: Start a blog, YouTube channel, or Instagram page to practice strategies.

Taking on Freelance Work: Offer your services to startups, small businesses, or nonprofits.

Joining Internships: Intern with companies to learn from experienced professionals.

Practical application will teach you how to adapt strategies for different audiences and goals.

4. Master the Essential Tools

Digital marketing relies heavily on technology. Familiarize yourself with tools like:

Google Analytics: To monitor and interpret website data.

SEMrush or Moz: For SEO optimization and competitor analysis.

Canva or Adobe Spark: For creating stunning visuals.

Hootsuite or Later: For managing social media campaigns.

Proficiency in these tools will make your work efficient and impactful.

5. Focus on Data and Analytics

Data is the backbone of digital marketing. Learn how to analyze metrics like website traffic, conversion rates, and engagement levels. Understanding data helps you optimize campaigns and make informed decisions to improve ROI (Return on Investment).

6. Stay Ahead of Trends

Digital marketing is constantly changing, with new platforms, algorithms, and trends emerging. Stay current by:

Following industry leaders on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Reading blogs like Search Engine Journal and Content Marketing Institute.

Attending webinars and conferences to expand your knowledge and network.

Adapting to changes ensures your strategies remain effective.

7. Build a Personal Brand

Create an online presence that showcases your skills and expertise. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Medium, or a personal website to share your insights, case studies, and projects. A strong personal brand not only attracts opportunities but also establishes your credibility.

8. Learn to Collaborate and Communicate

Digital marketing often involves working with designers, content creators, developers, and other professionals. Developing strong communication and collaboration skills is key to running successful campaigns and building strong client relationships.

9. Start Small, Think Big

Take on small projects or roles, such as a Social Media Coordinator or Junior SEO Specialist, to gain hands-on experience. As you grow, consider specializing in a niche like performance marketing, influencer outreach, or content strategy.

10. Embrace Lifelong Learning

Digital marketing is a journey, not a destination. Keep learning, experimenting, and refining your skills. Join communities, seek mentorship, and never hesitate to explore emerging technologies like AI in marketing.

Final Thoughts

Mastering digital marketing requires curiosity, persistence, and a commitment to growth. By taking a step-by-step approach and continually honing your skills, you’ll position yourself as a sought-after professional in this ever-evolving industry. Start your journey today and watch your career soar! 🚀

[nehamexdy]

Nonprofits: Maximize Impact with Custom Ad Servers

Maximize Your Nonprofit's Impact with Custom Ad Servers from Kiaan Technology

In today’s digital age, nonprofits face the challenge of making every dollar count. Efficient marketing strategies are essential for driving awareness, funding, and engagement. One powerful tool that can significantly enhance your nonprofit's online presence is a custom ad server. At Kiaan Technology, we specialize in creating tailored ad server and ad network setups designed specifically for nonprofit organizations. Here’s how our solutions can maximize your nonprofit’s impact:

What is an Ad Server, and Why Does It Matter for Nonprofits?

An ad server is a platform that delivers and manages digital ads, allowing you to display targeted advertisements across websites, apps, or other digital properties. For nonprofits, having a custom ad server offers a wealth of benefits:

Efficient ad delivery: Seamlessly manage and serve your ads to the right audience, at the right time, without relying on third-party platforms.

Cost-effective advertising: By using your own ad server, you can cut out the middleman (and their fees), allowing you to invest more in your mission.

Enhanced targeting: Deliver ads to users based on their behavior, location, interests, and past interactions, which increases the likelihood of converting views into donations or actions.

Brand control: Gain complete control over your messaging and campaign, ensuring that every ad aligns with your nonprofit's voice and mission.

How Kiaan Technology Can Help You

At Kiaan Technology, we offer comprehensive ad server setup and ad network setup services tailored to the unique needs of nonprofits. Here’s what our solutions provide:

1. Custom Ad Server Setup:

Tailored to Your Needs: We design an ad server that fits your nonprofit’s goals, whether you’re promoting events, encouraging donations, or spreading awareness about your cause.

Multiple Ad Formats: Serve different types of ads—banner, video, native—across your platforms.

Advanced Reporting and Analytics: Track ad performance with detailed analytics to understand what works and optimize for maximum results.

Nonprofit-Specific Features: Our custom solutions include tools that allow you to track donations, conversions, and audience engagement easily.

2. Ad Network Setup:

Expand Your Reach: Set up a private ad network to connect with other like-minded nonprofits or organizations, amplifying your reach without the high costs of traditional ad networks.

Monetize Inventory: If you have unused ad space on your website or app, we help you monetize that space by connecting with other nonprofits or partners who want to advertise relevant products or services.

Custom Revenue Models: Set up flexible pricing models for advertising across your ad network, including cost-per-click (CPC), cost-per-impression (CPM), and more.

3. Seamless Integration and Support:

Easy Integration: Our ad server solutions easily integrate with your website, app, and other digital platforms.

Ongoing Support: From setup to troubleshooting, we provide continuous support to ensure your ad server is running smoothly, giving you peace of mind.

Scalability: Whether you're a small nonprofit or a larger organization, our solutions grow with you.

Why Nonprofits Should Choose Kiaan Technology

Cost-Effective: By cutting out third-party ad networks, you save money that can be reinvested into your cause.

Complete Control: Manage and optimize your digital campaigns on your terms, ensuring every ad aligns with your nonprofit’s values.

Improved Donor Engagement: Increase visibility for your campaigns and encourage deeper engagement with your donors and supporters.

Sustainability: Build a long-term, self-sustaining ad strategy that grows your nonprofit’s online presence year after year.

Get Started Today!

At Kiaan Technology, we’re committed to empowering nonprofits through cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re a small local organization or a large international nonprofit, we offer the tools you need to reach your audience and amplify your message. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to maximize your impact with a custom ad server and ad network setup designed specifically for your nonprofit.

Contact us today to learn more about how our ad server solutions can drive better results for your nonprofit’s digital marketing efforts!

Contac No :-9752100980

[jw6770811]

An In-Depth Guide to Google Ad Grants Eligibility and Compliance for Nonprofits

Google Ad Grants is a valuable tool that provides eligible nonprofits with free Google advertising. However, accessing and maintaining eligibility for this grant requires an understanding of Google’s policies and compliance rules. In this guide, we’ll walk through the eligibility criteria, compliance requirements, and best practices for working with Google Ad Grants consultants to ensure your nonprofit meets and maintains the standards for this incredible program.

1. What is Google Ad Grants?

Google Ad Grants offers qualifying nonprofits up to $10,000 per month in ad credit. This free Google advertising can be used to run text ads on Google, driving awareness, engagement, and support for nonprofit initiatives. It’s an incredible opportunity for nonprofits, but it comes with specific eligibility and compliance requirements.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Google Ad Grants

To qualify for Google Ad Grants, nonprofits must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Nonprofit Status: The organization must be a registered nonprofit and hold valid charity status in their country.

Website Quality: Google requires nonprofits to have a high-quality, secure website that clearly communicates their mission and programs.

Compliance with Google’s Policies: Organizations must adhere to Google Ad Grants’ policies, including the standard Google Ads policies.

3. Maintaining Compliance with Google Ad Grants Policies

Once approved, nonprofits need to maintain compliance to continue receiving the grant. Here are the main compliance requirements:

Account Activity: Nonprofits must log into their Google Ad Grants account at least once a month and make changes every 90 days.

CTR Requirement: Accounts must maintain a minimum 5% click-through rate (CTR). This can be achieved by optimizing ad copy, targeting high-intent keywords, and reviewing underperforming ads.

Keyword Selection: Nonprofits should avoid single-word and overly generic keywords. Google Ad Grants consultants can help identify keywords that are both compliant and effective.

Geotargeting: Ads must target specific geographical areas relevant to the nonprofit’s mission.

4. Partnering with Google Ad Grants Consultants

Working with experienced Google Ad Grants consultants can help nonprofits navigate the requirements and ensure compliance. Consultants assist with:

Setting Up and Structuring Campaigns: Consultants help create and organize campaigns to meet Google’s quality standards.

Ongoing Optimization: Consultants regularly monitor ad performance, adjusting keywords, bids, and targeting to maintain compliance.

Tracking Conversions: Setting up conversion tracking to measure valuable actions (e.g., donations, sign-ups) ensures the account is optimized for impact.

5. Key Compliance Tips for Success

Focus on High-Intent Keywords: Avoid generic terms, instead focusing on specific phrases related to your nonprofit’s mission.

Refine Ad Copy: Write clear, compelling ad copy with a strong call to action.

Monitor Performance Regularly: Google Ad Grants accounts require consistent management. Regular monitoring and adjustment will help meet the CTR and other performance standards.

Conclusion

Google Ad Grants is a powerful tool, but maintaining eligibility and compliance requires careful attention to detail. By following these guidelines and working with Google Ad Grants consultants, your nonprofit can effectively manage its grant account, ensuring ongoing access to free Google advertising that helps drive meaningful support for your cause.

An In-Depth Guide to Google Ad Grants Eligibility and Compliance for Nonprofits

[taradekker]

How Can Tailored Marketing Approaches Transform Nonprofit Visibility?

In today's competitive landscape, nonprofit organizations face the challenge of standing out among countless others vying for attention and support. Universal events inc approaches can significantly enhance nonprofit visibility, enabling these organizations to connect more effectively with their target audiences, attract funding, and foster long-term relationships with supporters. This article explores various strategies that nonprofits can employ to maximize their visibility and impact.

The Importance of Tailored Marketing for Nonprofits

Nonprofit marketing is distinct from traditional marketing in that it aims to raise awareness, engage communities, and inspire action rather than simply drive sales. Effective nonprofit marketing creates emotional connections, which are crucial for converting interest into tangible support, such as donations or volunteer hours. By tailoring marketing strategies to specific audiences, nonprofits can ensure that their messages resonate more deeply, leading to increased visibility and engagement.

Key Strategies for Enhancing Nonprofit Visibility

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) SEO is a fundamental strategy for improving online visibility. By optimizing website content with relevant keywords related to their mission, nonprofits can enhance their search engine rankings and attract organic traffic. This involves creating high-quality content that addresses the needs and interests of potential supporters. For instance, a nonprofit focused on mental health could publish articles on coping strategies or resources, making it easier for individuals searching for help to discover their services.

Google Ad Grants The Google Ad Grant program offers nonprofits $10,000 per month in free advertising credits. This funding allows organizations to create targeted ads that promote their mission, events, and fundraising efforts directly to individuals searching for related topics. Utilizing this grant effectively can significantly boost a nonprofit's visibility and attract new supporters.

Social Media Engagement Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to engage with their audience in real-time. By crafting compelling narratives and utilizing visually appealing content, organizations can foster community engagement and share their mission widely. Regular interaction with followers through comments, shares, and live events helps build a loyal supporter base.

Content Marketing Developing a robust content marketing strategy allows nonprofits to establish authority in their field while providing valuable information to their audience. This can include blog posts, webinars, podcasts, and educational resources that align with the organization’s mission. Collaborating with influencers or thought leaders can also expand reach and credibility.

Email Marketing Email remains a powerful tool for nonprofits to communicate directly with supporters. By segmenting donor lists and personalizing content based on interests and past interactions, organizations can increase engagement rates significantly. Regular newsletters highlighting key initiatives or success stories keep supporters informed and involved.

Event Marketing Hosting events—whether virtual or in-person—can serve as a platform for nonprofits to showcase their work and connect with potential supporters directly. Events not only raise awareness but also provide opportunities for fundraising and community building.

Measuring Success

To assess the effectiveness of tailored marketing strategies, nonprofits should establish clear goals and utilize analytics tools to track performance metrics such as website traffic, engagement rates on social media, email open rates, and conversion rates from campaigns. Regularly analyzing this data allows organizations to refine their strategies based on what resonates most with their audience.

Conclusion

Tailored marketing approaches are essential for transforming nonprofit visibility in a crowded marketplace. By leveraging SEO, Google Ad Grants, social media engagement, content marketing, email outreach, and event marketing, nonprofits can create meaningful connections with their audiences. Ultimately, these strategies not only enhance visibility but also drive support for the vital missions these organizations uphold.

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Why Choose BrainCandy for Your Post-Production Needs in Mumbai

In today’s highly competitive digital world, high-quality video content is essential for any business or nonprofit looking to engage with audiences, build brand awareness, and drive conversions. However, the key to creating a truly impactful video lies not just in the raw footage but in the post-production process. This is where a professional touch makes all the difference. That’s where BrainCandy, a leading digital marketing agency based in Navi Mumbai, comes in.

As a comprehensive digital marketing agency offering services ranging from website design to social media marketing, BrainCandy excels in providing top-tier post-production services to help businesses and organizations craft visually compelling, emotionally engaging videos that resonate with their target audiences. Here’s why you should choose BrainCandy for your post-production needs in Mumbai.

1. Expertise in Crafting Compelling Stories

At BrainCandy, we understand that great video content is about more than just attractive visuals. It’s about storytelling. Our post-production team is composed of experienced editors and creative professionals who are adept at turning raw footage into a narrative that captivates viewers. Whether you need to create an inspiring brand story, an educational explainer video, or a fundraising appeal, our team knows how to structure and edit your content to create a compelling and memorable story.

Our approach includes:

Pacing: We ensure the video flows seamlessly, keeping viewers engaged from beginning to end.

Narrative Structure: By focusing on your video’s key messages and integrating emotional beats, we make sure that the story resonates with the intended audience.

Audience Focus: We tailor the content to speak directly to the unique interests and concerns of your target market.

2. Comprehensive Post-Production Services

BrainCandy offers a wide array of post-production services to meet all your video needs. Whether you’re a startup, a growing business, or a nonprofit organization, we have the expertise and tools to enhance your video content across different formats and platforms. Our services include:

Video Editing: We meticulously edit raw footage, trimming unnecessary segments, refining transitions, and ensuring smooth pacing to tell a compelling story.

Sound Design and Mixing: The right audio can enhance the emotional impact of your video. We provide professional sound mixing, voice-over integration, and sound effects to ensure crisp, clear audio and perfect background music.

Color Grading: To create the right atmosphere and evoke the desired emotional response, we offer color correction and color grading services that bring out the best in your video’s visuals.

Graphics and Animation: From animated explainer videos to dynamic motion graphics, we integrate visual elements that help reinforce key messages and provide clarity to complex concepts.

Subtitles and Captions: We help make your video more accessible with accurate subtitles and captions, ensuring that your content can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

Social Media Optimization: We tailor your videos for different platforms (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, etc.), ensuring that each version meets the platform’s technical requirements and best practices.

3. Tailored Solutions for Every Industry

BrainCandy doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to post-production. We understand that different industries have different needs, and we customize our services to suit your unique goals. Whether you’re in the corporate sector, e-commerce, or working with nonprofits, we create videos that reflect your brand’s voice and values, helping you connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Some industries we specialize in include:

Corporate Videos: For businesses looking to create engaging corporate films, product demos, and promotional content, we offer a full range of services to enhance brand messaging.

E-Commerce: We help e-commerce brands boost conversions with visually appealing product videos, ads, and tutorials that highlight their products’ benefits.

Nonprofit Organizations: BrainCandy works with nonprofits to create impactful fundraising and awareness videos that move audiences to act, whether it's donating, signing petitions, or volunteering.

4. State-of-the-Art Technology and Tools

To ensure your video stands out in today’s digital world, BrainCandy uses the latest post-production software and tools. Our team is equipped with professional-grade tools for video editing, color grading, motion graphics, sound design, and animation. These advanced tools enable us to deliver a high-quality final product that meets the highest standards.

Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro: We use industry-leading editing software for seamless and efficient video editing.

DaVinci Resolve: For color grading and correction, we rely on DaVinci Resolve, ensuring that every frame is perfectly polished.

After Effects: For animations and motion graphics, we use Adobe After Effects to bring your video to life with dynamic visual effects.

Pro Tools: For professional sound mixing and editing, we utilize Pro Tools to ensure top-tier audio quality in every video.

Using these cutting-edge tools, we ensure that your video has the best possible production value and looks professional, no matter the format or platform.

5. Affordable Pricing with High ROI

At BrainCandy, we believe that high-quality post-production services should be accessible to businesses and organizations of all sizes. We offer flexible and affordable pricing packages tailored to your specific needs and budget. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, we can provide a customized solution that ensures you get the most out of your video investment.

Our focus is always on maximizing ROI. By delivering visually appealing, high-quality videos that drive engagement and conversions, we ensure that every rupee you invest in post-production yields measurable results.

6. Quick Turnaround Times

We understand the importance of timelines in business. Whether you need a video for a product launch, a social media campaign, or an upcoming event, we work efficiently to meet deadlines without compromising quality. Our post-production team is committed to delivering your project on time, ensuring that your content is ready to go when you need it.

7. Local Expertise with a Global Vision

Being based in Navi Mumbai, BrainCandy has a deep understanding of the local market and the cultural nuances that businesses need to connect with Indian audiences. At the same time, we also have experience working with global clients, ensuring that your video content can appeal to a broad international audience.

Our team understands how to craft videos that resonate with diverse cultures and demographics, allowing your brand to expand its reach and make a lasting impact.

8. End-to-End Services

From the initial consultation to the final delivery of your video, BrainCandy offers end-to-end post-production services. We work closely with you throughout the process to understand your goals and ensure that the final product aligns with your brand vision. Whether you’re looking for minor tweaks or full-scale video production, we offer a comprehensive suite of services to meet all your post-production needs.

Conclusion

Choosing BrainCandy for your post-production needs means partnering with a team of creative professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality, impactful videos that align with your goals. From enhancing brand messaging to increasing engagement, we use our expertise in video editing, sound design, graphics, and animation to help you create videos that stand out and drive results.

If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and experienced post-production partner in Mumbai, BrainCandy is here to help. Let us transform your raw footage into a polished, engaging video that delivers measurable ROI and propels your business forward. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your post-production needs and create videos that make a real impact

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Digital Marketing Strategies for Nonprofits: Raising Awareness and Donations

In an age where digital presence can make or break a cause, nonprofits confront the unique task of not only advertising their message but also engaging and mobilizing supporters. As financial competition heats up, organizations must employ efficient digital marketing methods to raise awareness and attract donations. Nonprofits can use digital platforms to reach a larger audience, encourage community participation, and eventually acquire the funding they need to carry out their missions.

The Digital Landscape of Nonprofits

With over 4.5 billion active internet users worldwide, the digital landscape provides numerous opportunities for organizations to raise their voices. Nonprofits can interact with supporters in meaningful ways by using social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO). However, navigating this landscape necessitates a strategic approach customized to the specific demands of non-profit organizations.

Strategies to Increase Awareness

Create compelling content

Content is the foundation of any successful digital marketing plan. Nonprofits should generate intriguing and emotionally appealing material to share their message. This may include blog entries, videos, infographics, and case studies that demonstrate the impact of their work. Organizations can strengthen their audience's emotional connection by presenting personal tales and testimonials, motivating them to support the cause.

Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are an excellent tool for NGOs to communicate with their audiences. Organizations may build a thriving online community by releasing updates on a regular basis, sharing success stories, and engaging with followers. Nonprofits may leverage platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to reach a wide range of demographics and encourage consumers to share their material, resulting in exponentially increased visibility.

Optimize for search engines (SEO)

Implementing SEO tactics can greatly increase a nonprofit's internet visibility. Organizations can improve their search engine rankings by optimizing website content with relevant keywords. This is critical for attracting new donors who may be looking for causes that are relevant to the nonprofit's aim. Regularly updating the website with new information might help improve SEO performance.

Utilize Email Marketing

Email marketing is still one of the most successful ways for NGOs to engage directly with their supporters. Creating an email list allows organizations to send frequent updates, share success stories, and promote future events. Personalizing communications and segmenting audiences based on their interests can increase interaction and generate donations.

Strategies for Increasing Donations

Implement online fundraising campaigns

Nonprofits can establish targeted online fundraising campaigns by incorporating crowdfunding platforms or donation buttons into their websites. Setting precise goals and dates can instill a feeling of urgency in contributors, driving them to contribute. Using storytelling tactics and visual content can improve these efforts and make them more interesting to prospective donors.

Provide multiple giving options

To increase donations, NGOs should offer a variety of giving alternatives, such as one-time donations, monthly subscriptions, and legacy giving. It is critical to ensure that the contribution process is basic and easy to understand. Integrating several payment options, such as credit cards, PayPal, and mobile payment solutions, can help boost conversion rates.

Engage Donors with Impact Reports

Transparency is essential for developing confidence with funders. Nonprofits can demonstrate accountability and success by publishing impact reports that detail how money are allocated. Sharing success stories and quantitative achievements might encourage donors to give again in the future, building long-term partnerships.

Run social media fundraising drives

Social media sites include novel fundraising features, such as Facebook's fundraising tools, which allow users to establish personalized campaigns for their preferred causes. Nonprofits can urge supporters to use these methods to raise both donations and awareness. Organizations can reach out to new audiences and urge their followers to participate by promoting these initiatives on social media.

Conclusion

Digital marketing provides NGOs with tremendous tools to increase visibility and boost fundraising efforts. Organizations can raise awareness of their causes and inspire more people to donate by employing effective techniques that speak to their target audience. As the digital landscape evolves, organizations must remain nimble and imaginative in order to fully leverage the power of digital marketing to effect long-term change in their communities. Embracing these techniques is more than simply a way to raise donations; it is an opportunity to build meaningful relationships that empower supporters and further the organization's mission.

Ready to make a difference through digital marketing? CACMS Institute offers comprehensive digital marketing training in Amritsar! We offer hands-on training with an industry-focused curriculum that will equip you with the skills necessary to raise awareness and funds for any cause. Whether you're new to digital marketing or want to improve your skills, CACMS provides the top digital marketing courses in Amritsar.

Get started now! For further information, please contact us at +91 8288040281 or visit CACMS Institute

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Emily Popson, Vice President of Growth Marketing at CallRail – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/emily-popson-vice-president-of-growth-marketing-at-callrail-interview-series/

Emily Popson, Vice President of Growth Marketing at CallRail – Interview Series

Emily Popson is the Vice President of Growth Marketing at CallRail, where she leads demand generation, website optimization, customer marketing, and content marketing teams. Having previously been a small business owner herself, Popson is passionate about making modern marketing analytics tools accessible to even the smallest teams and companies.

Can you share more about your professional journey and how your experiences led you to your current role as Vice President of Growth Marketing at CallRail?

Over the last 15 years, my professional journey has been primarily focused on working with SaaS companies with a focus on all aspects of growth marketing – from demand generation to customer marketing, conversion rate optimization to graphic design and more.

Most of my experience has been in the marketing technology space (serving small and medium-sized businesses, hospitality, and nonprofits) and in roles in the virtualized IT backup and monitoring software industries.

While this past career experience has largely shaped the professional I am today, my passion is truly what led me to CallRail. As someone who built and ran their own small business, I saw a unique opportunity with CallRail to take the expertise I’d built working in growth marketing and B2B revenue leadership and use it to help support small business owners. I understand the challenges that small business owners face and it brings me joy that I’m able to help our customers market and grow their businesses with confidence by connecting them with purpose-built solutions.

As the Vice President of Growth Marketing, what are your primary responsibilities and goals? How do you approach driving revenue growth and demand generation?

I oversee our robust growth marketing team with the functions comprising this team including: Content & Copy, Website Strategy & Production, Demand Generation, and Customer Marketing. Together, we’re responsible for driving revenue growth for the business. We do this by attracting, acquiring, educating, converting, and expanding current and future customers along every stage of their journey. One of my biggest responsibilities is equipping these teams to leverage the art and the science of each functional area to maximize revenue impact on the business.

While our growth marketing team works together as a unit, each function also has its own unique set of goals that help contribute toward our collective goal of driving growth for the business. These include:

Content & Copy: Efficient and impactful content production for every stage of the buyer’s journey, increased strategic use of AI to improve efficiency and impact, content influence on new revenue generation.

Website Strategy & Production: Enhancing site experience, SEO performance, and increasing conversion rate from new user to free trial.

Demand Generation: Increased category and brand awareness, demand capture via free trial volume generated monthly, quality trial generation as measured by conversion rate from trials to customers, increasing customer mix from strategic verticals of focus, marketing acquisition cost (MAC) efficiency, achieving monthly targets for new MRR.

Customer Marketing: Driving customer engagement, customer product usage and adoption, collecting and utilizing the voice of the customer across the business, driving free trials for add on products, achieving cross-sell and upsell new revenue targets monthly.

I approach revenue growth and demand generation by taking a unified approach to our marketing efforts. While our team has different functions with different sets of goals and responsibilities, each of these goals feed into one another to help drive us toward our growth goal.

How have you seen the marketing industry evolve during your career, particularly in terms of growth marketing and demand generation?

Reflecting on what the industry looked like when I started my career compared to what it has transformed into today, I’d say the biggest change the marketing landscape has experienced is the emergence of so many new possibilities—from new channels and tactics to how we approach segmentation and targeting.

It’s exciting to see this evolution unravel. The space has seen an emergence in things like Connected TV marketing (CTV), which delivers video ads to viewers via a streaming service when they’re watching content, and the rise of influencers, which have changed the approach marketers are taking to get their message out there.

The way the industry engages with customers is so different from what it once was. Now, it’s easier than ever to engage with customers directly – from within your product to social media – and this type of direct engagement has been a game changer for voice of customer (VOC) collection. Marketers can engage with their customers instantaneously and this more real-time engagement is driving more seamless VOC, which allows marketers to get feedback on their messaging, products or services – should customers have an issue, this allows marketers to address things quickly and efficiently.

In a world increasingly driven by data, the marketing industry is no stranger to the power that comes from data and the AI explosion. With increased data availability, marketers are equipped with new personalization capabilities – allowing them to take extremely personalized approaches for target audiences and existing customers. When it comes to AI, the industry is using the tech to transform how we approach everything from SEO to content creation and copy writing to buyer’s journey insights and website conversion optimization to UX research and behavior analysis.

While this evolution has generally been a positive one, the industry is also experiencing a lot of noise. With what feels like endless new technologies popping up, there’s this “shiny object syndrome” that can creep in and really distract from great marketing. While each industry always wants to be an early adopter of these emerging technologies, now more than ever marketers need to ensure they have the tools and processes in place to keep true to their objectives. Marketers must have a clear mission and trust that if they have the right tools, processes, people, and data in place – they’ll be properly powered to connect their solutions with their audiences.

How is CallRail leveraging AI to enhance its products and services? Can you provide examples of how AI is being used to improve call tracking and attribution?

At CallRail, we’ve been using AI for almost a decade to provide small businesses with Conversation Intelligence, which unlocks insights from customer conversations to better optimize marketing campaigns and convert more leads.

As AI continues to revolutionize industries, the technology has empowered us to unlock new frontiers in understanding and optimizing the buyer’s journey. In the last couple of years, we’ve leveraged AI to unlock even more insights from businesses’ conversations that allow them to fuel better marketing, better connection with their customers, better conversion, and overall, more business growth.

I’m particularly proud and excited about our AI-powered self-reported attribution (SRA). Whether a business asks its leads, “How did you hear about us?” or the leads offer the answers unprompted, SRA uses AI to understand, extract, categorize, and report on the attribution insight alongside a business’ software-based attribution data.

How does combining self-reported and software-based attribution provide a more comprehensive view for marketers?

This approach is revolutionary and the next frontier of attribution, I believe. Businesses not utilizing self-reported attribution alongside their software-based attribution are using dated and limited practices.

While software-based attribution, like we offer in CallRail’s Call Tracking and Form Tracking solutions, solves for platform bias and increases visibility into both online and offline touchpoints – it isn’t without its own set of limitations. Software-based attribution struggles to overcome opacity caused by dark social, word-of-mouth referrals, or human bias for convenience. It can also struggle to capture the influence of brand marketing maneuvers fully. It has been notoriously challenging to measure the impact that these levers have on a business – but this previously hidden data can now be unlocked with CallRail’s self-report attribution.

Businesses can pair CallRail’s patent-pending self-report attribution data with data from their software-based attribution to eliminate blind spots and enable more confident and accurate marketing decision-making. Marketers will no longer wonder what drove leads to them; they’ll always be able to know how their business got on each lead’s radar and what marketing converted them to ultimately reach out.

Think about it like this: you’re a landscaping company working with a marketing agency for a rebrand and marketing strategy overhaul. As part of the new strategy, your agency designs eye-catching new yard signs for use while on the job. As a result, prospective customers that notice your great work are also taking note of your yard signs and brand. The prospects search for your business and call the number on your Google Business Profile (GBP). You receive a spike in qualified leads and dozens of calls from GBP and on those calls they mention seeing your signs in their neighborhood. But you’ve only received a few calls from your yard sign call tracking number. Using just software-based attribution or just self-reported attribution alone would lead you to:

Software-based attribution: Only using this, you’d attribute this revenue increase to Google Business Profile and you’d never know how influential your new branding and yard signs had been in this journey.

Self-reported attribution: Using this method alone, you’d attribute the revenue to the yard signs. You’d lack insight into the role and importance of a well-maintained GBP.

By only having data from one or the other available, a business may make strategy or investment decisions based on limited insight. Together, the software-based and self-reported insights give a clearer understanding of the buyer’s journey, providing visibility into the influence these “invisible” factors can have.

This approach helps to bridge the gap between traditional attribution methods and AI-driven insights. Self-reported attribution empowers marketers to make even more informed decisions and confidently navigate the complexities of today’s marketing landscape.

What emerging trends do you see in AI and marketing technology, and how is CallRail positioning itself to stay ahead in this space?

As the space gets noisier and more crowded, we will continue to see strong user demands and preferences for purposeful AI solutions. This appetite will further catapult CallRail ahead.

CallRail is leading the charge here with our explicit commitment to developing solutions that solve real problems for businesses and doing so in accessible ways. We also work with the best partners in the space and leverage the best models available for the purposes of the businesses we serve.

The marketing technology landscape has experienced many seasons of excitement around new capabilities which, in the short term, resulted in a boom of jumbled martech stacks full of disparate vendors, followed by platforms that consolidate capabilities for easier and more cost-effective access. CallRail is focused on serving our market in as many ways as we are able to do best in a single platform.

With AI, similar to any marketing technology, value will come from the user’s ability to leverage AI output – be it data, insights, actions – more broadly. CallRail’s rich ecosystem of strategic tech partnerships will continue to allow businesses to leverage the data, insights and actions we provide across their tech stack.

How do CallRail’s Conversation Intelligence® and Convert Assist products use AI to provide deeper insights into customer interactions and help businesses optimize their marketing efforts?

Our suite of AI solutions allows businesses to analyze conversations for deeper insights into leads and customers so they can attract, convert, and optimize with confidence.At a glance, our solutions provide insights that help businesses attract more leads, like attribution insights and keyword spotting to inform their channel mix, marketing investments, and content strategy.

We also provide the insights businesses need to convert more of those leads into customers. To identify qualities of a conversation, and automatically qualify, score, tag, or assign a value to their leads. Another capability, call coaching, allows businesses to automatically coach their teams on how to improve each conversation – providing real-time improvements to help your business run seamlessly. Our offerings also allow businesses to create AI-generated action plans and follow up messages so that despite how busy their teams are, they’re able to consistently keep leads engaged and moving forward.

CallRail’s AI capabilities, like our multi-conversation insight, reports help marketers optimize their business. By aggregating insights across all calls from a specific channel, businesses not only can identify opportunities for where they can optimize their marketing, but also help to pinpoint any messaging confusion, spot commonly asked questions and average sentiment. For businesses investing in marketing, these insights help to maximize spend while also providing optimal return on investment faster.

In what ways do you think CallRail’s AI capabilities give it a competitive advantage in the market?

CallRail has been using AI to help businesses solve problems and grow confidently since 2016. We’re not new to this, so while other companies are working to solve the initial AI pain points, we already have the partners, people, and processes in place.

Building an AI strategy can be a difficult process – especially for those starting out whose focus is on trying to figure out how and where AI will fit into their solutions. We already have this strategy in place and for us, our focus is on keeping closely aligned to the clearly defined “AI North Star” that we use to guide us.

We do this by testing, iterating, and collecting feedback. This is done formally through our CallRail Labs program. In just one year, CallRail Labs has released 12 features, helping to bring intentional AI-powered products to our customers.

CallRail’s solutions are designed with purpose in mind—they solve real-world problems without creating new ones for our customers. A key differentiator of our solutions is the pairing of AI insights alongside rich attribution—our self-reported attribution is patent-pending, and our multi-conversation insights reports are the first of their kind, aggregated AI insights for quicker action.

By harnessing our deep expertise in attribution, conversation intelligence, and the SMB market – paired with our rich and broad partner ecosystem – our solutions power confident marketing and enable growth for the businesses we serve.

What advice would you give to marketers looking to integrate AI into their strategies?

My biggest piece of advice is to be bold in testing and intentional in implementation. Spend the time to really think about how you can use AI to create space, capacity, and opportunity and test, test, test.

Take tasks like content and copy, for example—use AI to jump-start content and copy, and use it to create different versions of your copy that are specialized for each of your channels.

For marketers who don’t have the time for deep exploration or analysis, AI can help you to quickly uncover data-driven insights, empowering you to take action faster. For those kicking the can down the road on their SEO strategy, a conversation intelligence product can surface common topics used by your leads and customers; these can be great starting points for SEO content production. These same AI-surfaced insights can help you spot opportunities for new marketing ideas or even new service offerings.

Don’t have the time to be QAing sales and service calls? Conversational AI like CallRail’s Convert Assist can provide positive and critical feedback on your behalf after every call, helping keep your business running, improving and growing.

If your marketing is really starting to perform, but bandwidth is limited on the sales and service side, use AI to create efficiencies in their work flows. Convert Assist can also write follow-up messages for team members following every conversation ensuring every lead you generate receives a great experience and the best chance to convert.

What are your future goals for CallRail and its growth marketing initiatives in the next few years?

Looking ahead, there are a few growth marketing initiatives we’re tracking towards. Top of mind for me right now are expansion of strategic influencer deployment and impact in key verticals and evolving our site and in-app experience optimization efforts.

Additional core focuses for us over the next few years include:

Prioritizing ongoing rapid experimentation: Growth marketing impacts not only new user growth, but also growth through our existing users, and protecting our growth by preventing churn. Using new tools – especially those powered by AI – to better understand user behavior and identify opportunities for revenue driving or churn reducing optimizations will be a priority team wide.

Protecting and expanding SEO: Amidst landscape changes – from AI Overviews to insights from the Google leak – maintaining SEO strength and advantage is critical. We’ll do so via strategic adjustments, AI assistance and ongoing investments.

This is just a glimpse into what lay ahead. Our growth marketing team will continuously focus on the assessment and evolvement of our attribution practices. As seriously as we take our attribution products that we provide our customers, we also walk the walk internally. By paying significant attention to our buyer’s journey, we’ll use our own insights to keep pace with their preferences – we understand that this journey is ever-evolving alongside the evolving marketing landscape.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit CallRail.

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Dev Pragad- Pioneering Global Economic Collaboration for Sustainable Growth

In a dynamic effort to bolster international business ties, Dev Pragad, CEO of Newsweek, took center stage during Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal's two-day visit to the United States. The high-profile discussions in New York brought together influential business leaders with a shared vision of positioning India as a premier global manufacturing hub. Pragad's involvement underscored his stature as a forward-thinking leader in global business, eager to drive collaboration and innovation.

Elevating India’s Manufacturing Aspirations

At the heart of the discussions was India’s ambitious drive to streamline its business environment and attract substantial foreign investment. Minister Goyal presented India's roadmap for improving ease of doing business, focusing on critical areas such as infrastructure development, intellectual property rights (IPR) reform, and tailored incentive programs aimed at encouraging international ventures.

Dev Pragad’s contributions in these discussions were instrumental, drawing on his vast experience in media and technology. His insights provided a nuanced understanding of how these reforms could pave the way for India’s emergence as a global manufacturing powerhouse. Pragad’s ability to bridge the gap between policy and practical business implementation highlighted his role as an influential voice in shaping sustainable economic development.

Influencing Global Business Strategy

A pivotal moment in the discussions was Minister Goyal’s luncheon with the US India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), where Pragad was a key participant. The forum, which assembled top business leaders, focused on policies that would promote innovation, stimulate job creation, and foster industrial growth. Pragad's contributions at the event reflected his deep commitment to harnessing cross-border collaboration as a tool for economic expansion.

Pragad’s optimism was shared by fellow industry leaders, as they explored India's newly introduced policies. These initiatives, aimed at enhancing the country's global competitiveness, presented promising opportunities for international investors to tap into India’s vast market potential. Pragad’s forward-looking perspective on innovation and sustainability resonated with the forum's overarching goals of long-term, inclusive growth.

Engaging with the Indian Diaspora: A Strategic Asset

In addition to these high-level business talks, Pragad took part in discussions with members of Indiaspora, a prominent nonprofit organization that champions the influence of the global Indian community. Alongside members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) from New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., Dev Pragad emphasized the critical role the Indian diaspora plays in fueling India's development. His advocacy for leveraging this global network to boost India’s economic prospects underscored the importance of strategic partnerships in realizing India’s vision for the future.

Minister Goyal’s engagements also extended to a meeting with leaders from New York’s Gems and Jewellery industry, organized by the Consulate General of India. These conversations highlighted India’s significant role in the global market, and Pragad’s contributions once again brought forth innovative strategies for fostering collaboration and driving sectoral growth.

A Visionary Shaping the Future of Global Business

Dev Pragad’s involvement in these influential discussions reflects his growing prominence as a global leader committed to advancing economic cooperation and sustainability. His leadership at Newsweek has positioned him as a powerful advocate for cross-border collaboration, with a keen focus on harnessing innovation to drive progress.

Through his active participation, Pragad continues to shape the future of international business relations between India and the United States. His strategic vision, coupled with his dedication to fostering global partnerships, has established him as a pivotal figure in driving economic growth and global prosperity.

As India aims to solidify its place on the world stage, leaders like Dev Pragad remain at the forefront of efforts to build bridges between nations, industries, and communities, ensuring that the benefits of progress are shared widely and equitably across the globe.

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Transform Your Brand’s Visual Identity with Top Graphic Design Services in India

Effective Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate

When it comes to Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate, it’s important to create a design that resonates with the target audience. A clean, intuitive design that reflects the organization’s mission or the property’s value is essential. Effective Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate includes:

Simplified navigation for ease of use.

Engaging content that aligns with the nonprofit’s goals or the real estate’s value proposition.

Mobile-friendly design to reach a wider audience.

Effective Nonprofit Real Estate Web Design to Boost Engagement

A Nonprofit Real Estate Web Design must be crafted with precision to cater to the unique needs of these sectors. A strong Nonprofit Real Estate Web Design focuses on delivering a user experience that encourages donations, volunteer sign-ups, or property inquiries.

A Nonprofit Real Estate Web Design should empower organizations to reach their target audience effectively, converting visits into meaningful actions.

Top Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate That Drives Results

Selecting a Top Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate can make a significant difference in achieving business or organizational goals. The Top Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate incorporates elements that ensure the website meets modern standards, such as:

Responsive design for mobile and desktop users

SEO-optimized content for better visibility on search engines

Fast loading times to enhance user experience and reduce bounce rates

Maximize Online Success with a Leading CX Design Agency

When building a digital presence, partnering with a CX design agency can be a game-changer. A CX design agency focuses on creating customer experiences that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional. With expertise in CX web design, these agencies craft user-friendly websites that drive engagement and conversions.

Transform Digital Experience with Expert CX Web Design

A strong online presence begins with effective CX web design. Prioritizing CX web design ensures that websites are intuitive and enjoyable to use. This approach can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased conversions. CX web design focuses on:

Creating seamless navigation for users

Optimizing mobile responsiveness for broader reach

For businesses aiming to stand out in a competitive market, investing in CX web design is essential to creating a lasting impression on users.

Top Strategies for Expert Web Development & CX Strategies

Creating a seamless user experience is crucial in today’s digital landscape. Expert Web Development & CX Strategies are essential for businesses looking to enhance their online presence and customer satisfaction. This involves optimizing site speed, ensuring mobile compatibility, and implementing user-friendly navigation. These strategies help in building trust and retaining customers

Choose Web Design Agency to Elevate Your Online Presence

Selecting the right agency to build an online presence is crucial, and opting to choose web design agency for online presence can be the key to success. A specialized agency will ensure that every aspect of a website aligns with business goals.

Experience in the specific industry

A portfolio that demonstrates success

A strategic approach to design and development

The Role of a CX Designer in Crafting User-Centric Websites

A CX designer plays a pivotal role in shaping the user experience on a website. By focusing on user needs, a CX designer ensures that every aspect of the site is tailored to enhance usability and satisfaction. Their expertise lies in creating intuitive interfaces, simplifying navigation, and ensuring that users have a seamless experience. A skilled CX designer blends design aesthetics with practical functionality to deliver websites that are both attractive and easy to use.

Comprehensive Guide to Web Maintenance Services for a Seamless Online Experience

A well-maintained website is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. Web maintenance services ensure that a website is always up-to-date, secure, and functioning optimally. Regular updates prevent security vulnerabilities, enhance user experience, and improve search engine rankings. Web maintenance services cover everything from content updates and security patches to performance monitoring and backup management, making it easier to manage online business operations.

Essential Small Business Web Maintenance Services for Growth and Stability

For small businesses, having a well-maintained website is essential for growth and stability. Small business web maintenance services offer tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of smaller enterprises, ensuring the website remains functional and user-friendly. Regular updates, security measures, and performance checks are critical for maintaining a competitive edge in the digital marketplace.

Professional Custom Logo Design Services for a Strong Brand Identity

A logo is the face of a business, and custom logo design services ensure that it stands out in a crowded market. A professionally designed logo communicates the brand’s identity, values, and mission. Custom logo design services provide unique, tailored logos that resonate with the target audience and leave a lasting impression.

Benefits of Custom Logo Design Services:

Unique and tailored designs that reflect the brand’s identity

Professional quality that enhances brand credibility

Versatile logos that work across different platforms and media

Strong brand recognition that helps businesses stand out

Quality Graphic Design Services in India: Crafting Visually Stunning Experiences

Brand differentiation is of the essence in today’s competitive marketplace, and exceptional graphic design services in India will help generate a distinctive brand identity. It can range from a mere logo to a brochure or an exhaustive branding package; designing just happens to be an indispensable way to put across your brand’s message. Indian graphic design services provide customized solutions for exact business requirements by unleashing creativity onto strategy, culminating in captivating and striking designs that connect with audiences. But with the right service provider, high-quality design work can be done that really makes your branding stand out or improves engagement.

Customized design solutions for businesses.

Expert designers with experience across various industries.

High-quality output aligned with brand values.

Premier Graphic Design Services India: Elevate Your Brand’s Visual Appeal

Build a better brand with professional Graphic design services India. A good design can create an impact and keep a brand ahead of competition. The graphic design services in India build captivating designs to portray a brand and showcase its spirit effectively. From business cards to full-scale advertising campaigns, these services cover everything regarding graphics, making sure every material meets consistency and quality.

Investing in graphic design services India is a strategic move towards creating a strong, memorable brand image. With skilled designers and cutting-edge tools, these services help businesses connect with their target audience through innovative and impactful designs.

Creating User-Friendly and Engaging Experiences

A well-designed website services page design will make any business communicate with the visitor to convert them into customers. The website services page design should be artistically appealing, convenient to use, and search engine friendly. It’s the first impression of your offered services, so it should be right. A well-designed website service page design gives the ability to effectively communicate value proposition, draw the main attention towards the key services provided, and guides visitors to the desired action.

User-friendly layouts that enhance user experience.

SEO-optimized design for better visibility on search engines.

Clear call-to-action elements to boost conversions.

Investing in a professional website services page design can significantly improve a website’s performance, leading to increased traffic and higher conversion rates. It ensures that visitors have a seamless and engaging experience, making it easier for them to find the services they need.

FAQ’s:

Q. How do graphic design services in India enhance brand identity?

Graphic design services in India are essential for creating a cohesive and visually appealing brand identity. These services ensure that all visual elements, such as logos, brochures, and advertisements, are consistent with the brand’s values and message.

Q. What makes a website services page design effective?

An effective website services page design is one that is user-friendly, visually appealing, and SEO-optimized. It should clearly communicate the services offered, include easy navigation, and feature strong call-to-action elements to guide visitors toward taking the desired action.

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How a Real Estate Design Studio Transforms Online Presence

Effective Strategies for Enhancing Online Presence

For organizations in both the nonprofit and real estate sectors, having a strong online presence is essential. The Top Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate focuses on creating websites that not only attract visitors but also convert them into donors or clients. This involves a deep understanding of the audience, strategic placement of calls to action, and the use of visually appealing elements. By implementing the Top Web Design for Nonprofits and Real Estate, organizations can ensure their sites are accessible, informative, and user-friendly, helping them achieve their goals more effectively.

Creating Effective Online Presence for Real Estate Developers

A good real estate developer website helps exhibit properties, engage prospective buyers, and builds a brand identity. The user’s journey on such websites should be seamless, displaying whatever the viewer would like to see, including some interactive property listings, virtual tours, and testimonials from clients. Advanced search functionality integrated into the website enables users to filter properties according to their preferences and enhance their experience on a real estate developer website. Besides, traffic and lead generation can be dramatically improved by making a website mobile responsive and optimized for SEO. A strategically designed website for a real estate developer means driving not only more visitors but converting them into clients as well, which is an inevitable tool for one’s success in the real estate market.

Why Choose Us?

Expertise in Real Estate: Specialized in developing websites that meet the specific needs of real estate developers.

Customized Solutions: Tailored designs to match your brand’s identity and goals.

Cutting-Edge Technology: Use of the latest web development trends and tools.

Benefits:

Increased Engagement: Interactive features and easy navigation keep users engaged.

Higher Conversions: SEO optimization and user-focused design lead to more leads and sales.

Brand Visibility: A well-designed real estate developer website enhances your brand’s online presence.

Maximizing Impact Through Strategic Web Design

Crafting a website that resonates with users is key to success in the real estate industry. The Top Web Design Strategies for Real Estate prioritize user experience, showcasing properties in a way that is both engaging and easy to navigate. This includes integrating features like virtual tours, high-quality images, and intuitive search functions. By focusing on the Top Web Design Strategies for Real Estate, agencies can attract more visitors, retain their interest, and convert them into clients, all while standing out in a competitive market.

The Importance of User Experience in Website Design

In the world of UX design, expertise matters. However, even veteran UX designers suck when they fail to adapt to changing user needs and industry standards. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and maintaining a user-centric approach is crucial. Veteran UX designers suck when they overlook the importance of continuous learning and fail to deliver designs that meet current user expectations. By avoiding common pitfalls, designers can ensure that their work remains relevant and impactful, providing the best possible experience for users.

Partnering with Leading Design Firms for Success

Selecting the right firm is essential when it comes to web design in the real estate sector. The Best real estate web design strategy firms are those that combine industry knowledge with cutting-edge design techniques to create websites that drive results. These firms understand the unique needs of real estate professionals and craft sites that enhance visibility, improve user engagement, and convert leads into clients. By working with the Best real estate web design strategy firms, real estate agencies can ensure their online presence is optimized for success.

Choosing the Right Agency for Your Web Design Needs

The success of a real estate website depends heavily on the agency behind its design. Top Real Estate Web Design Agencies are known for their ability to create stunning, functional websites that meet the specific needs of the industry. These agencies specialize in features like property showcase, easy navigation, and mobile optimization, ensuring that the site performs well across all platforms. By collaborating with Top Real Estate Web Design Agencies, real estate professionals can ensure their website stands out, attracts potential buyers, and drives business growth.

Finding the Best Web Design Partners for Real Estate Firms

You need to ensure that the real estate web design agency you go with will put together a website that is indicative of your firm’s persona. A good real estate web design agency would know what that particular industry needs; hence, it should ensure that high-quality visuals, user-friendly interfaces, and SEO strategies aimed at better visibility are employed. The real estate web design agency would further extend long-term support to keep your website at the edge in terms of the latest trends and technologies. With an experienced real estate web design agency, real estate companies can more effectively showcase their properties and services to drive more footfalls and improve sales.

Enhanced User Experience: Intuitive design that improves visitor interaction.

SEO-Optimized: Higher search engine rankings lead to increased traffic.

Long-Term Support: Continuous updates and support from the real estate web design agency ensure your site stays relevant.

Effective Strategies for Real Estate Web Design

Finding the Best Real Estate Web Design Firms is essential for agencies looking to establish a strong online presence. These firms specialize in creating websites that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional. The Best Real Estate Web Design Firms focus on user experience, ensuring that potential clients can easily navigate property listings and find the information they need. Additionally, these firms incorporate SEO best practices, making sure your site ranks high on search engines. Choosing the Best Real Estate Web Design Firms ensures your real estate business stands out in a competitive market, attracting more clients and increasing sales.

User-friendly navigation to enhance client experience.

SEO optimization for better search engine rankings.

Mobile-responsive design to cater to all users.

Visually appealing layouts to attract potential clients.

Key Features of Top-Performing Real Estate Website Companies

It is about time one considers taking the best companies for real estate website design for a real estate agency that would want to set up a strong virtual presence. These companies focus on designing websites that have the correct combination of aesthetics and functionality to ensure that users have a seamless experience right from the time they land on the page. The best companies in real estate website design understand the importance of these sites being mobile-friendly, fast in loading, and easy to navigate. Work with the best companies for real estate website design to ensure your website looks great and actually converts the traffic coming from it.

Maximizing Success with Leading Real Estate Website Services

The best real estate website services are game changers for realtors. Their focus is to provide comprehensive solutions, starting with the enrichment of the user experience with the features of property search, to integrated CRM systems. Among all the other qualities, the Best Real Estate Website Services ensure your website works well on desktops and mobile phones. The real estate agencies could promote better exposure to their agency, manage their operations better, and hence get more leads and sales with the best services in real estate website development.

Integrated CRM systems to manage client relationships.

Property search features for easy access to listings.

Optimization for both desktop and mobile devices.

Comprehensive solutions to improve online visibility.

Enhancing Mission Impact with Nonprofit-Focused Web Design

Such engagement is reached with the help of the Best Nonprofit Web Design Companies, through which organizations can maximize online potential. The sites developed by these companies are those aimed at proper, effective information provision concerning missions and, furthermore, at stimulating engagement and donations. The Best Nonprofit Web Design Companies emphasize usability for finding ways to get involved in any campaign or to involve others in it. They further use methods to increase search engine rankings and hence make people find your cause easily. Best Nonprofit Web Design Companies ensure that with them, an organization will have an online presence which is effective enough to make an impact and hence realize its objectives.

Innovative Website Solutions for Charitable Organizations

Selecting one of the best nonprofit web design agencies can make a great difference in a charity organization’s online presence. A Top Nonprofit Web Design Agency builds up a website which is capable of expressing the charity mission and its values with the view to attract donors and volunteers. The agency pays special attention to UX so that the design is not only beautiful but functional. It is of paramount importance that the elements of storytelling, clear calls to action, and ease of navigation are observed. The top nonprofit web design agency would focus on all these aspects in an attempt to help a nonprofit better achieve its goals.

Transforming Nonprofit Visions Into Impactful Websites

Partnering with Top Nonprofit Website Design Companies is essential for nonprofits aiming to maximize their online presence. Top Nonprofit Website Design Companies excel at crafting websites that are not only visually appealing but also strategically designed to drive engagement and donations. These companies understand the unique needs of nonprofits, ensuring that their websites are user-friendly, mobile-responsive, and optimized for search engines. By focusing on the specific goals of each nonprofit, Top Nonprofit Website Design Companies deliver tailored solutions that help organizations amplify their impact and connect with a broader audience.

Innovative Design Solutions for Real Estate Websites

A specialized real estate design studio offers creative and innovative solutions for building impactful real estate websites. The real estate design studio focuses on crafting unique designs that resonate with your target audience while ensuring the website is functional and easy to navigate. With expertise in incorporating the latest trends, such as minimalistic design, interactive features, and responsive layouts, a real estate design studio can elevate your online presence. Collaborating with a real estate design studio ensures that your website not only looks great but also performs well, attracting more visitors and converting them into potential buyers.

Why Choose Us?

Creative Expertise: Unique, trend-setting designs that make your website stand out.

Functional Excellence: Balance between aesthetic appeal and user functionality.

Responsive Design: Websites that look and work perfectly on all devices.

Benefits:

Increased Visitor Retention: Engaging design keeps users on your site longer.

Better Conversion Rates: A visually appealing and functional site drives more inquiries and sales.

Distinctive Brand Presence: A real estate design studio creates a site that differentiates your brand from competitors.

Partnering with a real estate design studio provides an opportunity to leverage innovative design solutions that enhance your website’s effectiveness. By focusing on creativity and functionality, a real estate design studio ensures your site not only captivates visitors but also performs optimally, leading to increased engagement and higher conversion rates. Investing in these specialized services can significantly impact your real estate business’s success in the digital space.

FAQs:

What makes a real estate design studio different from other web design agencies?

A real estate design studio specializes in creating websites specifically tailored to the real estate market, incorporating industry-specific features and design elements that are not commonly found in general web design agencies.

How can a real estate design studio improve my website’s performance?

A real estate design studio enhances your website’s performance by integrating innovative design trends, ensuring mobile responsiveness, and implementing user-friendly features that improve visitor engagement and conversion rates.

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Technology

California’s two biggest school districts botched AI deals. Here are lessons from their mistakes.

With all the hubris of a startup founder, Alberto Carvalho, superintendent of Los Angeles Unified School District, took to the stage in March to launch Ed the chatbot. He told parents and students it had “the potential to personalize the educational journey at a level never before seen in this district, across the country, or around the world.”

“No other technology can deliver real time on this promise,” he said. “We know it will succeed.”

In June, after only three months and nearly $3 million, the district shelved Ed following layoffs of more than half of the staff at AllHere, the startup that made the conversational AI assistant. District spokesperson Britt Vaughan refused to answer questions about the bot’s performance or say how many students and parents used it before the shutdown.

Also in June, an AI controversy unfolded in San Diego, where school board members reportedly weren’t aware that the district last summer bought a tool that automatically suggests grades for writing assignments. The dustup began after Point Loma High School teacher Jen Roberts told CalMatters that using the tool saved her time and reduced burnout but also gave students the wrong grade sometimes.

A week later, Voice of San Diego quoted two members of the school board saying they were unaware the district had signed a contract involving AI. In fact, no one on the board seemed to know about the tool, the news outlet said, since it was included as part of a broader contract with Houghton Mifflin that was approved unanimously with no discussion alongside more than 70 other items.

(None of the board members responded to CalMatters’ requests for comment. San Diego Unified School District spokesperson Michael Murad said that since AI is a quickly evolving technology, “we will make an increased effort to inform board members of additional relevant details related to contracts presented to them in the future.”)

Mistakes in Los Angeles and San Diego may trace back to growing pressure on educators to adopt AI and underline the need for decision-makers to ask more and tougher questions about such products before buying them, said people who work at the intersection of education and technology. Outside experts can help education leaders better vet AI solutions, these people said, but even just asking basic questions, and demanding answers in plain English, can go a long way toward avoiding buyer’s remorse.

No one disputes that educators face increasing demands to find ways to use AI. Following the release of OpenAI’s generative AI tool ChatGPT nearly two years ago, the California Education Department released guidance referencing an “AI revolution” and encouraging adoption of the technology. Educators who previously spoke with CalMatters expressed fear that if they miss the revolution, their students could get left behind in learning or workforce preparedness.

Grading AI Tools

Staff shortfalls, techno-optimism, a desire to be on the cutting edge and a fear of missing out all push educators to adopt AI, said Hannah Quay-de la Vallee, a senior technologist at the Center for Democracy and Technology, a nonprofit that’s studied how teachers and students are adopting generative AI.

She thinks recent events in Los Angeles and San Diego show that more education leaders need to engage in critical analysis before bringing AI tools into classrooms. But whether a particular AI tool deserves more scrutiny depends on how it’s used and the risk that use poses to students. Some forms of AI, like the kind used for grading and predicting if a student will drop out of school, she said, deserve high risk labels.

The European Union regulates AI differently based on risk level, and in the U.S. the National Institute of Standards and Technology released a framework to help developers, government agencies, and users of AI technology manage risk.

California’s state schools superintendent, Tony Thurmond, was unavailable to respond to CalMatters’ questions about any action he could take to help prevent future school AI snafus.

Lawmakers are considering a bill that would require the superintendent to convene a working group to make recommendations on “safe and effective” use of artificial intelligence in education. The bill was introduced by Josh Becker, a Democrat from Silicon Valley, and supported by Thurmond and the California Federation of Teachers.

Quay-de la Vallee suggested that educators work with organizations that vet and certify education technology tools such as Project Unicorn, a nonprofit that evaluates edtech products.

When education leaders rush to adopt AI from education technology providers anxious to sell AI, both may cut corners, said Anaheim Union High School District Superintendent Michael Matsuda, who hosted an AI summit in March attended by educators from 30 states and more than 100 school districts.

He thinks the recent AI problems in San Diego and Los Angeles demonstrate the need to avoid getting caught up in hype and to vet claims made by companies selling AI tools.

School districts can assess how well AI tools perform in classrooms with help from tech-minded teachers and internal IT staff, Matsuda said. But assistance is also available from nonprofits like The AI Education Project, which advises school districts across the nation about how to use the technology, or a group such as the California School Boards Association, which has an AI task force that tries to help districts and counties “navigate the complexities of integrating artificial intelligence.”

“We have to work together, consider what we learned from missteps, and be open about that,” he said. “There are a lot of good products coming out, but you have to have the infrastructure and strategic policies and board policies to really vet some of these things.”

Education leaders don’t always have an intimate understanding of tech used by teachers in their school district. Matsuda said Anaheim Union High School District uses AI to personalize student learning material and even offers classes to students interested in a career in AI, but he said he doesn’t know if Anaheim educators use AI for grading today. Following events in San Diego, Matsuda said the district may consider high risk labels for certain use cases, such as grading.

Using Common Sense

You don’t have to be an expert in AI to be critical of claims made about what AI can do for students or teachers, said Stephen Aguilar, co-lead of the Center for Generative AI and Society at the University of Southern California, and a former developer of education technology. District officials who sign contracts with AI companies need to know their own policy, know what the district seeks to achieve by signing the contract, and ask questions. If contractors can’t answer questions in plain English that may be a signal they’re overselling what’s possible or attempting to hide behind technical jargon.

“I think everyone should take the lessons learned from LA Unified and do the post mortem, ask questions that weren’t asked, and slow things down,” Aguilar said. “Because there’s no rush. AI is going to develop, and it’s really on the AI edtech companies to prove out that what they’re Jacob Aere,  Andrew Bracken  selling is worth the investment.”

The challenge, he said, is that you don’t evaluate an AI model once. Different versions can produce different results, and that means evaluation should be a continuous process.

Aguilar said that while events in Los Angeles and San Diego schools demonstrate the need for greater scrutiny of AI, school district administrators seem convinced that they have to be on the cutting edge of technology to do their jobs, and that’s just not true.

“I don’t quite know how we got into this cycle,” he said.

The market is pressuring edtech providers to include AI in their products and services, foundations are pressuring school leaders to include AI in their curriculum, and teachers are told that if they don’t adopt AI tools then their students might get left behind, said Alix Gallagher, head of strategic partnerships at the Policy Analysis for California Education center at Stanford University.  

Since AI is getting built into a lot of existing products and contracts involving curriculum, it’s highly likely that San Diego’s school board is not alone in discovering AI unexpectedly bundled into a contract. Gallagher said that administrative staff will need to ask questions about supplemental curricula or software updates.

“It’s close to impossible for districts and schools to keep up,” she said. “I definitely think that’s even more true in smaller school districts that don’t have extra people to devote to this.”

Gallagher said AI can do positive things like reduce teacher burnout, but individual teachers and small school districts won’t be able to keep up with the pace of change, and so trusted nonprofits or state education officials should help determine which AI tools are trustworthy. The question in California, she said, is whose going to step up and lead that effort? *Reposted article from CalMatters by Khari Johnson on August 6, 2024