ReportWire

Tag: tools

  • Rethinking icebreakers in professional learning

    Key points:

    I was once asked during an icebreaker in a professional learning session to share a story about my last name. What I thought would be a light moment quickly became emotional. My grandfather borrowed another name to come to America, but his attempt was not successful, and yet our family remained with it. Being asked to share that story on the spot caught me off guard. It was personal, it was heavy, and it was rushed into the open by an activity intended to be lighthearted.

    That highlights the problem with many icebreakers. Facilitators often ask for vulnerability without context, pushing people into performances disconnected from the session’s purpose. For some educators, especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds, being asked to disclose personal details without trust can feel unsafe. I have both delivered and received professional learning where icebreakers were the first order of business, and they often felt irrelevant. I have had to supply “fun facts” I had not thought about in years or invent something just to move the activity along.

    And inevitably, somewhere later in the day, the facilitator says, “We are running out of time” or “We do not have time to discuss this in depth.” The irony is sharp: Meaningful discussion gets cut short while minutes were spent on activities that added little value.

    Why icebreakers persist

    Why do icebreakers persist despite their limitations? Part of it is tradition. They are familiar, and many facilitators replicate what they have experienced in their own professional learning. Another reason is belief in their power to foster collaboration or energize a room. Research suggests there is some basis for this. Chlup and Collins (2010) found that icebreakers and “re-energizers” can, when used thoughtfully, improve motivation, encourage interaction, and create a sense of safety for adult learners. These potential benefits help explain why facilitators continue to use them.

    But the promise is rarely matched by practice. Too often, icebreakers are poorly designed fillers, disconnected from learning goals, or stretched too long, leaving participants disengaged rather than energized.

    The costs of misuse

    Even outside education, icebreakers have a negative reputation. As Kirsch (2025) noted in The New York Times, many professionals “hate them,” questioning their relevance and treating them with suspicion. Leaders in other fields rarely tolerate activities that feel disconnected from their core work, and teachers should not be expected to, either.

    Research on professional development supports this skepticism. Guskey (2003) found that professional learning only matters when it is carefully structured and purposefully directed. Simply gathering people together does not guarantee effectiveness. The most valued feature of professional development is deepening educators’ content and pedagogical knowledge in ways that improve student learning–something icebreakers rarely achieve.

    School leaders are also raising the same concerns. Jared Lamb, head of BASIS Baton Rouge Mattera Charter School in Louisiana and known for his viral leadership videos on social media, argues that principals and teachers have better uses of their time. “We do not ask surgeons to play two truths and a lie before surgery,” he remarked, “so why subject our educators to the same?” His critique may sound extreme, but it reflects a broader frustration with how professional learning time is spent.

    I would not go that far. While I agree with Lamb that educators’ time must be honored, the solution is not to eliminate icebreakers entirely, but to plan them with intention. When designed thoughtfully, they can help establish norms, foster trust, and build connection. The key is ensuring they are tied to the goals of the session and respect the professionalism of participants.

    Toward more authentic connection

    The most effective way to build community in professional learning is through purposeful engagement. Facilitators can co-create norms, clarify shared goals, or invite participants to reflect on meaningful moments from their teaching or leadership journeys. Aguilar (2022), in Arise, reminds us that authentic connections and peer groups sustain teachers far more effectively than manufactured activities. Professional trust grows not from gimmicks but from structures that honor educators’ humanity and expertise.

    Practical alternatives to icebreakers include:

    • Norm setting with purpose: Co-create group norms or commitments that establish shared expectations and respect.
    • Instructional entry points: Use a short analysis of student work, a case study, or a data snapshot to ground the session in instructional practice immediately.
    • Structured reflection: Invite participants to share a meaningful moment from their teaching or leadership journey using protocols like the Four A’s. These provide choice and safety while deepening professional dialogue.
    • Collaborative problem-solving: Begin with a design challenge or pressing instructional issue that requires participants to work together immediately.

    These approaches avoid the pitfalls of forced vulnerability. They also account for equity by ensuring participation is based on professional engagement, not personal disclosures.

    Closing reflections

    Professional learning should honor educators’ time and expertise. Under the right conditions, icebreakers can enhance learning, but more often, they create discomfort, waste minutes, and fail to build trust.

    I still remember being asked to tell my last name story. What emerged was a family history rooted in migration, struggle, and survival, not a “fun fact.” That moment reminds me: when we ask educators to share, we must do so with care, with planning, and with purpose.

    If we model superficial activities for teachers, we risk signaling that superficial activities are acceptable for students. School leaders and facilitators must design professional learning that is purposeful, respectful, and relevant. When every activity ties to practice and trust, participants leave not only connected but also better equipped to serve their students. That is the kind of professional learning worth everyone’s time.

    References

    Aguilar, E. (2022). Arise: The art of transformative leadership in schools. Jossey-Bass.

    Chlup, D. T., & Collins, T. E. (2010). Breaking the ice: Using ice-breakers and re-energizers with adult learners. Adult Learning, 21(3–4), 34–39. https://doi.org/10.1177/104515951002100305

    Guskey, T. R. (2003). What makes professional development effective? Phi Delta Kappan, 48(10), 748–750.

    Kirsch, M. (2025, March 29). Breaking through. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/29/briefing/breaking-through.html

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    Andy Szeto, Ed.D, Professor and District Administrator

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  • Useful Gifts for Gardeners for Under $35: Stocking Stuffer Ideas

    Small gifts for gardeners abound in gift shops and at online retailers, but if we’re honest? Many of them aren’t great picks for true gardeners (we wouldn’t dare pick out seeds for another gardener, for example.) So we’ve gathered a list of 10 stocking stuffer-sized gifts that we think Gardenista readers will actually appreciate. Our […]

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  • 18 Of The Best Formative Assessment Tools For Digital Exit Tickets

    contributed by Ryan Schaaf, Assistant Professor of Technology, Notre Dame of Maryland University



    Digital Exit Slips: 21 Formative Assessment Tools for Grades 8-12

    You have a classroom full of students packing up after an instructional lesson.

    Your mind goes to the critical questions: Did my students get the lesson? Are there any concepts or skills they are still unsure of? Do students have misconceptions about the content? Do I need to review anything tomorrow?

    These are the questions reflective educators contemplate. These questions are addressed immediately by using an **exit ticket**. Exit tickets are a simple, quick, and insightful **formative assessment** method employed at the end of a lesson. They require learners to answer a few questions or perform a task based on the content explored during class.

    Exit ticket formats vary. You can use multiple-choice, short written responses, matching, or polls. Exit tickets must be short, concise, and engage learners in reviewing the skills explored. They are also ideal for continuing the learning into the next class, often used to activate students’ previous knowledge immediately upon entry.

    In the age of digital learning, exit tickets are no longer confined to paper slips. Numerous digital tools are available to collect this valuable performance data instantly.

    These tools move beyond simple paper collection, providing you with student data in real time or in easy-to-analyze reports, streamlining your instructional decisions.

    TeachThought Staff

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  • Reliable and relatable resources build confident students: The triple Rs of scholastic esports

    Key points:

    I know what it feels like to stand in front of a classroom that does not have enough. Not enough computers. Not enough up-to-date software and technical tools. Not enough resources to give every student the experience they deserve. When students notice these gaps, they notice more than the missing tools. They begin to question whether their education and, by extension, their potential really matters. That doubt can quietly drain their confidence.

    This is why dependable resources are not simply a bonus in education. They are a lifeline. In my role leading the Scholastic Esports Academy in the Five Carat Choice Program at Palm Beach Lakes High School, I have watched how access to quality equipment and meaningful project-based learning transforms students from the inside out. It is not only about what they learn but about how they begin to see themselves.

    I have been fortunate to develop partnerships with organizations like Cleverlike Studios, changing the game for my students by bringing advanced technology and creativity directly into the classroom. For example, they learned how to create new characters for Minecraft and designed custom esports jerseys for their Minecraft characters. Students were engaged while learning in games they know and love. These experiences allow them to express their creativity and see their ideas come to life while building complex skills such as coding, digital media, and game design.  

    When students make the leap from simple play to design, careers in technology and digital media suddenly seem accessible, even if they have never seen themselves in these fields before. Scholastic esports is an avenue within the educational landscape that merges the captivating realm of the video game industry with project based learning and educational objectives. It capitalizes on students’ existing interests for STEM subjects, including gamification, digital media, robotics, and financial literacy, directing them towards a structured and educational setting.

    In just five years, the Palm Beach Lakes Scholastic Esports Academy has grown from a small club of ten students to more than five hundred, becoming a full CTE academy that operates both during the school day and after school. Through this experience, students are earning four to five industry certifications along their four year pathway. Their success demonstrates what happens when resources are reliable, relatable, and creativity is encouraged. Students are now able to see themselves in real time through 3D models and their own digital designs, creating new characters for Minecraft and customizing their own esports jerseys.

    Recognizing this success, the Pew Foundation invested nearly $500,000 to expand our infrastructure and transform the program from an after school club into a full daytime classroom experience, creating even greater opportunities for growth and student success. Now, when our students walk into the Esports classroom, they enter a space built around their passions. They see powerful gaming computers, professional streaming equipment, and projects that speak their language. Suddenly, the skills they once thought were only for others become reachable. They begin to realize that their love for video games, robotics, and digital media can open doors to real world careers and college opportunities.

    The results speak for themselves:

    • In FY23 Palm Beach Lakes High School used a Pew Grant to launch the esports course and compared outcomes with a matched group of students.
    • Students who participated in esports had significantly lower rates of in-school or out-of-school suspension, with about half as many incidents as their non-esports peers.
    • Absenteeism among esports students was also slightly lower.
    • While GPA and certification pass rates were similar, the behavioral improvements were clear and meaningful.

    These numbers match what I see every day. Students who once struggled to stay engaged now show up early to practice. They stay late to collaborate. They treat each other with a level of respect and teamwork that carries over into their other classes.

    None of this would be possible without reliable and relatable resources that connect directly to students’ interests and experiences. In a Title I school, these tools make learning meaningful by turning abstract ideas into hands-on projects that students can see, touch, and create. Expanding their minds through hands-on learning and project based materials from companies like Cleverlike Studios, our students gain access to educational tools that connect classroom lessons to real world applications. Coding challenges, game design projects, and digital media activities inspire creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Most importantly, this work helps students see that their ideas and talents have value and that their creativity can open doors to future opportunities. 

    For many of my students’ resources have always been scarce. But in the Scholastic Esports Academy they find more than equipment. They find opportunity. They discover that their skills have value beyond the game and that their voices and ideas matter. They begin to picture themselves as leaders in technology, media, and STEM fields.

    Student Alyssa Chavez said, “Last year, we completed an assignment to design a jersey for our esports teams to wear on Minecraft. The Esports Jersey assignment was very helpful and even inspiring to me because it helped me learn to adapt and appeal to the suggestions and requirements that a client or partner would want me to apply to a project.   The use of the Blockbench program helped me to understand the importance of knowing how to navigate and use a program to do my best work for certain projects. When making the jersey, I took the elements and colors of our ‘Retro Rams’ branding and applied them to the jersey to create a design that represents unity and teamwork, showcasing the unity of our esports team.”

    This is why I believe scholastic esports is not just about gaming. It is about creating a bridge between curiosity and opportunity. It is about giving students in under-resourced communities the confidence to dream bigger and the tools to make those dreams real.

    The ongoing success of our academy is proof that when education is supported with vision, dedication, and the right resources, students will rise. We have created a space where learning feels real, where creativity thrives, and where confidence is built through experience. Partners like Cleverlike Studios have played a part in this progress by providing educational tools that enhance what we do every day. Together, we are demonstrating that reliable and relatable learning environments not only inspire achievement but also prepare students to succeed beyond the classroom.

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    Julius Edwards, Palm Beach Lakes Esports & Sunshine State Esports League

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  • These 5 tech stocks could let you play earnings season like a pro

    These 5 tech stocks could let you play earnings season like a pro

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  • Tools and ideas to engage students in career-connected learning

    Key points:

    For nearly two decades, I’ve worked to improve teaching and learning with technology. And while the continuously evolving nature of technology has changed the trajectory of my career many times, I have always tried to drive deeper student engagement.

    Education stakeholders agree on the importance of engagement in learning. According to the recently released Education Insights Report, K-12 leaders, teachers, parents, and students overwhelmingly agree that engagement drives learning. To be more specific, 93 percent of educators say it’s a critical metric for achievement, 99 percent of superintendents rank it among the top predictors of school success, and 92 percent of students report that engaging lessons make school more enjoyable.

    During my career, I’ve found that one of the best ways to engage students in learning is to connect what is being taught to students in the classroom to potential career paths. One way to connect the dots between classroom lessons and their application to a potential career is through career-connected learning.

    Career-connected learning (CCL) experiences–such as classroom career lessons, job fairs, and mentorships–have a measurable impact on student engagement and future orientation. A recent report found that 88 percent of students participate in at least one CCL opportunity, and that having a mentor nearly doubles student engagement (37 percent vs. 16 percent), while also increasing students’ hope about their future (40 percent vs. 25 percent).

    Educational technology can help educators scale CCL learning in their district. At my school, I’ve found success with Career Connect, which can be accessed through Discovery Education Experience. This technology solution is an innovative, virtual platform that facilitates direct, real-time connections between K-12 educators, students, and industry professionals. Key features include on-demand, virtual classroom visits and an easy-to-navigate dashboard with accompanying standards-aligned lesson plans and activities.

    Career Connect has allowed instructional specialists and professional development consultants in our field to assist CTE teachers with additional credible and trusted resources. This enables our educators to create meaningful connections and higher engagement by embedding real-world voices to help students see the “why” behind learning, which sparks curiosity and motivation. Plus, the solution helps ensure equitable access for all students, because the virtual format allows schools anywhere to bring a broad range of professionals from all the over the world directly into their classrooms.

    Another favorite tool is CareerPrepped, a free resource by the Association for Career and Technical Education. Designed to meet the needs of learners, educators, and employers, the platform supports skills-based hiring, soft-skills development, and work-based learning through a dynamic digital platform.

    With over 40 essential workforce skills, students can build Skill Builders across competencies like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, time management, and more. These skills are demonstrated through Skill Badges and a career portfolio that houses real-world evidence such as project artifacts and multimedia illustrations. Students can create a personal portfolio that connect to platforms like LinkedIn. Then, students can request feedback on their skill evidence from peers, educators, and industry mentors, helping them understand strengths and areas for improvement.

    CareerPrepped offers value for educators by bridging the gap between academic learning and employability while enhancing work-based learning outcomes. Students actively document and prove their skills to employers and class alike.

    Implementing career-focused technology tools such as Career Connect and CareerPrepped in education offers many ways to integrate CCL into the classroom. Here are some potential strategies to consider:

    • Employee Spotlights: Host brief live or recorded talks with people in various careers to hear about job journeys and directly tie in a classroom lesson to that career. Bonus points if that employee is a former student of that district!
    • Micro-Internships: Arrange one-hour or one-day job shadows with local partners.
    • Challenge-Based Projects: Partner with businesses on real problems, like designing a locally-sourced cafeteria menu or revamping a playground.

    In summary, career-connected learning is a vital component of any classroom in this day and age, because it brings together traditional learning with real-world opportunities. By engaging students with industry partners, mentors, and authentic workplace experiences, students are empowered to see clear pathways from education to career success.

    These connections not only strengthen technical and employability skills but also foster confidence and purpose for each student. Ultimately, career connections ensure that all students graduate prepared, inspired, and equipped to thrive in both postsecondary education and the workforce.

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    Grace Maliska

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  • Tools and ideas to engage students in career-connected learning

    Key points:

    For nearly two decades, I’ve worked to improve teaching and learning with technology. And while the continuously evolving nature of technology has changed the trajectory of my career many times, I have always tried to drive deeper student engagement.

    Education stakeholders agree on the importance of engagement in learning. According to the recently released Education Insights Report, K-12 leaders, teachers, parents, and students overwhelmingly agree that engagement drives learning. To be more specific, 93 percent of educators say it’s a critical metric for achievement, 99 percent of superintendents rank it among the top predictors of school success, and 92 percent of students report that engaging lessons make school more enjoyable.

    During my career, I’ve found that one of the best ways to engage students in learning is to connect what is being taught to students in the classroom to potential career paths. One way to connect the dots between classroom lessons and their application to a potential career is through career-connected learning.

    Career-connected learning (CCL) experiences–such as classroom career lessons, job fairs, and mentorships–have a measurable impact on student engagement and future orientation. A recent report found that 88 percent of students participate in at least one CCL opportunity, and that having a mentor nearly doubles student engagement (37 percent vs. 16 percent), while also increasing students’ hope about their future (40 percent vs. 25 percent).

    Educational technology can help educators scale CCL learning in their district. At my school, I’ve found success with Career Connect, which can be accessed through Discovery Education Experience. This technology solution is an innovative, virtual platform that facilitates direct, real-time connections between K-12 educators, students, and industry professionals. Key features include on-demand, virtual classroom visits and an easy-to-navigate dashboard with accompanying standards-aligned lesson plans and activities.

    Career Connect has allowed instructional specialists and professional development consultants in our field to assist CTE teachers with additional credible and trusted resources. This enables our educators to create meaningful connections and higher engagement by embedding real-world voices to help students see the “why” behind learning, which sparks curiosity and motivation. Plus, the solution helps ensure equitable access for all students, because the virtual format allows schools anywhere to bring a broad range of professionals from all the over the world directly into their classrooms.

    Another favorite tool is CareerPrepped, a free resource by the Association for Career and Technical Education. Designed to meet the needs of learners, educators, and employers, the platform supports skills-based hiring, soft-skills development, and work-based learning through a dynamic digital platform.

    With over 40 essential workforce skills, students can build Skill Builders across competencies like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, time management, and more. These skills are demonstrated through Skill Badges and a career portfolio that houses real-world evidence such as project artifacts and multimedia illustrations. Students can create a personal portfolio that connect to platforms like LinkedIn. Then, students can request feedback on their skill evidence from peers, educators, and industry mentors, helping them understand strengths and areas for improvement.

    CareerPrepped offers value for educators by bridging the gap between academic learning and employability while enhancing work-based learning outcomes. Students actively document and prove their skills to employers and class alike.

    Implementing career-focused technology tools such as Career Connect and CareerPrepped in education offers many ways to integrate CCL into the classroom. Here are some potential strategies to consider:

    • Employee Spotlights: Host brief live or recorded talks with people in various careers to hear about job journeys and directly tie in a classroom lesson to that career. Bonus points if that employee is a former student of that district!
    • Micro-Internships: Arrange one-hour or one-day job shadows with local partners.
    • Challenge-Based Projects: Partner with businesses on real problems, like designing a locally-sourced cafeteria menu or revamping a playground.

    In summary, career-connected learning is a vital component of any classroom in this day and age, because it brings together traditional learning with real-world opportunities. By engaging students with industry partners, mentors, and authentic workplace experiences, students are empowered to see clear pathways from education to career success.

    These connections not only strengthen technical and employability skills but also foster confidence and purpose for each student. Ultimately, career connections ensure that all students graduate prepared, inspired, and equipped to thrive in both postsecondary education and the workforce.

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    Dr. Angie Haro, EdD, Education Service Center Region 19

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  • Rethinking substitute teacher preparation

    Key points:

    Many of us remember the days when having a substitute teacher meant movie day–a wheeled video cart appeared, and the substitute teacher’s main goal was making sure students stayed quiet until the bell rang. Times, and students’ needs, have changed.

    Even with teacher vacancies stabilizing in some areas, exhausted teachers still average missing 11 days of the school year, or 5-6 percent of a 186-day year, leaving students spending not single days, but weeks or even months, with substitute teachers. As a result, today’s substitute teachers must do far more than serve as placeholders. This shift demands a fundamental rethinking of how school districts prepare, support, and deploy substitute teachers. They can no longer view substitutes as temporary placeholders; they need capable, prepared educators who can keep learning on track and maintain continuity when regular teachers are absent.

    Professionalizing the substitute teaching role through standards-based training

    The first step toward professionalizing substitute teaching is acknowledging that substitutes are an essential part of the educational ecosystem and that their impact on student learning is quantifiable. A recent meta-analysis of studies demonstrated a positive link between teacher professional development, teaching practices, and student achievement.

    • Fully certified teachers tend to produce better student outcomes compared to those with provisional or no certification.
    • Underprepared teachers leave sooner, increasing instability.
    • Trained teachers are more likely to stay and build effectiveness over time.

    Yet many districts have failed to apply this same logic to substitute teachers, who may work with the same students for extended periods.

    A standards-based approach to substitute preparation mirrors what school leaders expect for all other educational roles. Just as they demand competency-based frameworks for students and research-backed training for teachers, substitute teachers need clearly defined expectations and aligned professional development.

    Seventy-seven percent of districts provide no training to substitute teachers.  When training is offered, the focus is primarily on logistics: Don’t be late, dress appropriately, and find the main office. While these basics matter, they represent only a fraction of what today’s substitutes need to know. Forward-thinking districts are adopting structured frameworks that move beyond ad hoc training approaches and bare minimum orientations. One promising model is the LEARN framework, which establishes five core standards for substitute teacher preparation:

    • Leads and supports instruction for all learners: Substitutes understand their instructional role and can facilitate meaningful learning experiences rather than simply supervising students.
    • Ensures a safe and productive learning environment: Substitutes move beyond basic classroom management to maintaining continuity of instruction and keeping learning productive.
    • Acts with professionalism and ethics: This standard emphasizes both professional behavior and ethical decision-making in educational settings.
    • Recognizes the whole child: Substitutes understand diverse learner needs, from special education students to those from high-poverty backgrounds, and can adapt accordingly.
    • Navigates the educational setting appropriately: This encompasses communication, collaboration, and connection with colleagues and school culture.

    What makes this framework powerful is its focus on supporting a safe, productive environment that keeps learning going from day one. Rather than hoping substitutes will figure things out through trial and error, districts can ensure every substitute enters the classroom prepared to continue learning from their first assignment.

    The framework also allows for tiered development. Basic training might cover essential competencies for short-term assignments, while enhanced modules provide more robust exploration of the LEARN standards relevant for different roles and needs. Additional content can be available to develop instructional best practices and student learning theory for longer-term placements. Advanced training might explore supporting diverse populations and specialized instructional strategies in working with students with special needs.

    Building a strategic substitute workforce through targeted professional development

    To begin implementing LEARN or any other framework for substitute teachers, districts should conduct an honest assessment that includes questions such as:

    • Do you provide consistent training for this critical role?
    • Does your substitute training address all essential competencies?
    • Are you expecting substitutes to maintain instructional continuity without providing the tools to do so?

    If gaps exist–perhaps you’re strong on professional expectations but weak on instructional preparation, or focused on behavior management while neglecting lesson plan interpretation–you face the choice between investing your time and money to develop comprehensive programs on your own or partnering with a provider who can deliver research-backed training.

    The classroom impact of having well-prepared substitute teachers in the classrooms becomes evident immediately. Untrained substitutes may default to worksheets and videos because they lack confidence and preparation. This can lead to disengaged students, behavior concerns, and other challenges. Trained substitutes, on the other hand, can facilitate small-group activities, manage learning centers, and guide students through complex tasks because they understand classroom routines and are confident in their ability to maintain established systems. As one teacher commented after training, “I can better engage students, adapt to their learning styles, and support stronger academic growth.”

    District leaders also see the impact of rigorous training, which one leader said “is helping to create more subs at a time they are desperately needed. The training they are getting helps them understand how to manage a classroom effectively–more so than the credit hour requirements.”

    This difference matters enormously for instructional continuity. When teachers know their substitutes can handle their established classroom routines and learning activities, they’re less likely to water down instruction or leave generic busy work. As a result, students experience fewer disruptions to their learning progression.

    From a workforce perspective, training drives retention. Employees who feel prepared and confident in their roles are more likely to continue working and stay with organizations longer. This principle, well-established in human resources research, applies equally to substitute teachers. When substitutes have the support they need to successfully manage classrooms and support student learning, they’re more likely to accept assignments and remain in the candidate pool.

    The path forward is clear: Districts must move beyond treating substitute teaching as an afterthought and embrace it as a critical component of education. By adopting standards-based frameworks, implementing comprehensive training programs, and strategically developing their substitute workforce, districts can ensure that learning continues regardless of which adult is leading the classroom. Districts that invest in professionalizing their substitute workforce will see returns in instructional continuity, teacher satisfaction, and ultimately, student achievement.

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    Dr. Stephanie Wall, Kelly Education

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  • The AI-Powered Patent Check That Is Reducing Risk for Startups and Their Lawyers

    AI is changing patent work in the same way spreadsheets changed accounting. The busy-work shrinks, and expert judgment matters more. That shift is good news for founders, investors, and, most crucially, attorneys who want to deliver earlier, more precise answers about, “Can we ship this without stepping on someone else’s patent?” 

    Why AI patent work matters now 

    In fast cycles, teams commit to features, designs, and markets long before the full extent of legal risk is known. Traditional patent searching is thorough but slow and expensive when used as the first step for every idea. AI, however, flips the order. It makes a quick, inexpensive first pass possible at the start, so attorneys can focus time where it counts. 

    What’s an early FTO check  

    Freedom to operate (FTO) is about risk. “Are there patents out there that our product might infringe?” A pre-FTO or triage pass is a fast screen—minutes, not weeks—that scans the landscape and highlights likely collisions. It’s not a legal opinion. It’s a map that says, “Pay attention here,” so counsel can dive deep efficiently. 

    What’s changed about the patent process 

    Modern AI can read and understand any sort of document fast and reliably, break it into claim-like elements—such as features, methods, and signals—and match those against huge patent corpora to surface the closest neighbors. AI is great at recall and ranking. The lawyer is great at boundaries and remedies—deciding if a claim overlaps, proposing a design-around, or advising to avoid jurisdiction. 

    The attorney angle and advantage 

    AI doesn’t replace legal judgment; it routes work to it sooner. That means attorneys can offer productized, fixed-fee “front-door” services without guessing. Think of it as a standard intake: 

    1. Triage: This is fast and low cost. Run the idea through a pre-FTO screen; get a ranked list of potential conflicts with plain-language notes. 
    2. Counsel review: This can be flat or fixed. An attorney interprets the overlaps, tests claim boundaries, and recommends changes (“Use method B, not A; file here, avoid there”). 
    3. Formal opinion: This is customized. Where warranted, the full FTO or targeted non-infringement analysis in specific jurisdictions. 

    Clients get speed and clarity while attorneys spend time on judgment, not on stitching together PDFs and queries. 

    Ultimately, tools make all the difference. For example, Evalify, a Nobody Studios portfolio company led and co-founded by William Carbone and Nick Sgobba, is one of the next-gen tools making that front door workable. Teams upload a short product brief or even a presentation deck. The system maps it to relevant patents and returns a preliminary FTO score with the closest references and a readable rationale in minutes. Attorneys then take that packet as the starting point for review, strategy, and, when needed, formal opinions. It’s the intake layer, not the last word. 

    Guardrails that make this safe 

    • Privilege and confidentiality: Matter data is isolated, logs are auditable, and default settings avoid cross-matter training, unless a client explicitly opts in. 
    • Explainability: This is every reference link to why it was flagged. No black-box magic is required to justify the next steps. 
    • Right tool, right moment: Pre-FTO is for early decisions. It doesn’t replace patentability searches, litigation strategy, or full clearance opinions. 

    It’s a win-win for the whole startup ecosystem 

    • Founders and product leaders can add deck-to-pre-FTO to their idea checklist before locking the roadmap. This equals cleaner calls, earlier. 
    • Investors can ask portfolio companies for a triage pass at the proposal stage. This reduces avoidable risk and speeds de-risking. 
    • Attorneys and firms can now offer a clear entry product—priced, scoped, and fast. They’ll use AI to widen the top of the funnel and reserve expert time for what they do best. 

    The future of patent work 

    AI won’t practice law, and it definitely won’t replace attorneys. However, it will make the front end of patent risk faster, cheaper, and easier to understand. It will also do this at a more predictable, if not fixed, cost. Firms that produce this intake—and founders who make it a habit—will move faster with fewer surprises. That’s not disruption for disruption’s sake. It’s simply better timing for everyone. 

    The opinions expressed here by Inc.com columnists are their own, not those of Inc.com.

    Peter Economy

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  • West Philly tool lending library is seeking donations for a new home

    A lending library that specializes in tools, not books, is asking the public to help it relocate.

    West Philly Tool Library has started a crowdfunding campaign to support its move from its home in Squirrel Hill. The nonprofit, which loans out over 4,5000 tools and other equipment to its members, says its lease was not renewed and it must leave by the end of 2025. It has operated out of a building at 1314 S. 47th St. for almost 15 years.

    MORE: New mural celebrating films set and shot in Philly features these 11 movies

    The library is now aiming to raise $20,000 to help cover “the significant costs associated with repairs and interior build-out at the new space as well as moving costs.” Staffers estimate they will need closer to $50,000 in total.

    As of Friday morning, the campaign has generated a little over $5,000. Jason Sanders, the library’s executive director, said via email that the nonprofit has not received any other monetary donations yet. But several businesses, he wrote, have already pledged raffle items or food and drink donations for the West Philly Tool Library’s fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 25.

    “This is such a critical moment for the Tool Library and we are looking for support from the community,” Sanders said in a statement. “We are the only tool library in Philadelphia and it’s such an important resource to preserve — everyone deserves to have affordable and equitable access to tools and skills.”

    The library’s inventory includes power and mechanical tools as well as ladders, drop cloths, gardening equipment, pressure washers, carpet cleaners and even a few books (mostly manuals). These items are available to all members, who pay annual dues. The library offers several membership tiers based on income, ranging from $20 a year to $1,000 for lifetime access.

    The West Philly Tool Library also offers DIY classes on sewing, woodworking and painting, among other topics.

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    Kristin Hunt

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  • Editors’ Cut: Fall Garden Essentials for Maintenance and Upkeep

    Welcome to The Editors’ Cut, our monthly column dedicated to all things beautiful and useful for the garden, patio, porch, and terrace. This month, as the high season wanes, the gardener turns toward quieter labors: maintenance, tidying, and other steadying tasks to prepare for the months ahead. Here, we’ve gathered the workhorse essentials for this moment, from sturdy basics to new classics. — The Gardenista Editors

    Niwaki Galvanized Buckets

    These new buckets from Japanese tool manufacturer Niwaki have fast become our favorites. Use them to carry big drinks of water to plants the garden hose can
    Above: These new buckets from Japanese tool manufacturer Niwaki have fast become our favorites. Use them to carry big drinks of water to plants the garden hose can’t reach or to gather yard debris. Shop now.

    Andrée Jardin Ashwood Hand Broom

    Above: Alexa bought this hand broom a few years back, and it’s proved to be an absolute must in her arsenal of garden tools: “It has super robust vegetable fiber bristles and is the only thing that really cleans up stair railings and fences around my garden.” Shop now.

    A Resilient, Drought-Tolerant Seed Blend from Outsidepride

    Sponsored by Outsidepride: Is there anything better than lolling on a lush patch of green grass? Just be sure that the grass you choose is durable, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant, reducing the need for care and maintenance. Outsidepride
    Sponsored by Outsidepride: Is there anything better than lolling on a lush patch of green grass? Just be sure that the grass you choose is durable, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant, reducing the need for care and maintenance. Outsidepride’s specially formulated Fireball/Hattrick Ryegrass seed blend—with moisture-saving OptiGrowth seed coating—thrives in a variety of climates and grows a dense, carpet-like turf with a rich, green hue. Plant it this fall, and enjoy your dream lawn come spring. Shop now.

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  • 5 ways to infuse AI into your classroom this school year

    Key points:

    As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the educational landscape, teachers have a unique opportunity to model how to use it responsibly, creatively, and strategically.

    Rather than viewing AI as a threat or distraction, we can reframe it as a tool for empowerment and efficiency–one that allows us to meet student needs in more personalized, inclusive, and imaginative ways. Whether you’re an AI beginner or already experimenting with generative tools, here are five ways to infuse AI into your classroom this school year:

    1. Co-plan lessons with an AI assistant

    AI platforms like ChatGPT, Eduaide.ai, and MagicSchool.ai can generate lesson frameworks aligned to standards, differentiate tasks for diverse learners, and offer fresh ideas for student engagement. Teachers can even co-create activities with students by prompting AI together in real time.

    Try this: Ask your AI assistant to create a standards-aligned lesson that includes a formative check and a scaffold for ELLs–then adjust to your style and class needs.

    2. Personalize feedback without the time drain

    AI can streamline your feedback process by suggesting draft comments on student work based on rubrics you provide. This is particularly helpful for writing-intensive courses or project-based learning.

    Ethical reminder: Always review and personalize AI-generated feedback to maintain professional judgment and student trust.

    3. Support multilingual learners in real time

    AI tools like Google Translate, Microsoft Immersive Reader, and Read&Write can help bridge language gaps by offering simplified texts, translated materials, and visual vocabulary support.

    Even better: Teach students to use these tools independently to foster agency and access.

    4. Teach AI literacy as a 21st-century skill

    Students are already using AI–let’s teach them to use it well. Dedicate time to discuss how AI works, how to prompt effectively, and how to critically evaluate its outputs for bias, credibility, and accuracy.

    Try this mini-lesson: “3 Prompts, 3 Results.” Have students input the same research question into three AI tools and compare the results for depth, accuracy, and tone.

    5. Automate the tedious–refocus on relationships

    From generating rubrics and newsletters to drafting permission slips and analyzing formative assessment data, AI can reduce the clerical load. This frees up your most valuable resource: time.

    Pro tip: Use AI to pre-write behavior plans, follow-up emails, or even lesson exit ticket summaries.

    The future of AI

    AI won’t replace teachers–but teachers who learn how to use AI thoughtfully may find themselves with more energy, better tools, and deeper student engagement than ever before. As the school year begins, let’s lead by example and embrace AI not as a shortcut, but as a catalyst for growth.

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    Timothy Montalvo, Iona University

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  • The OMNI-R Is the Swiss Army Knife of Rulers

    gadgets | measuring | rulers | tools

    This versatile gadget combines a number of useful measuring and drawing tools. The OMNI-R is a folding ruler with Imperial and Metric markings, and works as a protractor, compass, caliper, compass, and rollers for drawing parallel lines. In addition, it packs a long-lasting high-density graphite pencil, a bubble level, and a pop-out hobby knife.

    When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    OMNI-R Multifunction RulerOMNI-R Multifunction Ruler

    OMNI-R Multifunction RulerOMNI-R Multifunction Ruler

    OMNI-R Multifunction RulerOMNI-R Multifunction Ruler

    Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.

    Paul Strauss

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  • The MetMo Fractal Vise Grips Irregular Objects with Ease

    clamps | gadgets | metmo | tools

    Gadget maker MetMo dusts off a vintage vise design and turns it into a product you can buy. The fractal vice’s curved jaws slide on rails, allowing them to grip oddly shaped items with ease. MetMo’s miniature version is available with long (1.2″ max opening) or short jaws (3.2″ max opening), and is made from aluminum with stainless steel or brass jaws.

    When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    MetMo Fractal ViseMetMo Fractal Vise

    MetMo Fractal ViseMetMo Fractal Vise

    MetMo Fractal ViseMetMo Fractal Vise

    MetMo Fractal ViseMetMo Fractal Vise

    MetMo Fractal ViseMetMo Fractal Vise

    Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.

    Paul Strauss

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  • Preparing students for Industry 5.0: Rethinking STEM to shape the future workforce

    Preparing students for Industry 5.0: Rethinking STEM to shape the future workforce

    Key points:

    The global workforce is transforming, propelled by the dawn of the Fifth Industrial Revolution–commonly referred to as Industry 5.0. Unlike previous revolutions that focused solely on technological advancement, Industry 5.0 strongly emphasizes collaboration between humans and machines. While AI, robotics, and drones continue to push boundaries, this era also recognizes the importance of human creativity and problem-solving in conjunction with these tools.

    As we prepare the workforce of the future, it becomes clear that we must rethink our approach to STEM education. It’s no longer enough to teach technical skills in isolation. Instead, we must create learning environments that foster creativity and adaptability–key traits that will help students thrive in an increasingly complex and tech-driven world.

    The imperative for Industry 5.0 readiness

    The rise of AI and automation is reshaping industries, creating an urgent need for students to develop technical competencies and think innovatively about how these technologies can be applied. The future workforce must be able to work alongside machines in ways we can’t even fully anticipate yet. Anticipating this demands an education system that evolves to meet future challenges–not just by focusing on coding or data analysis but by cultivating skills that will prove invaluable in navigating new, unforeseen challenges.

    Hands-on STEM learning is key to this evolution. Rather than confining students to theoretical exercises, integrating real-world technologies like drones into the classroom can provide students with the physical experiences they need to better understand the evolving job market. As these young minds engage with advanced tools, they gain the technical know-how and develop the mindset required to succeed in Industry 5.0.

    Why drones? Connecting STEM to real-world applications

    Drones are among the most impactful ways to bring STEM education to life. Unlike traditional teaching methods, drones allow students to interface directly with technology, transforming their learning experiences from passive to active. In classrooms incorporating drones, students can experience real-world problem-solving scenarios that transcend textbook learning.

    For example, drones are already playing a crucial role in industries such as agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. By bringing these applications into the classroom, students are provided the opportunity to understand these technologies and explore their potential in solving pressing challenges across industries. Students can learn about everything from engineering and physics to coding and data analysis, all while working on projects with tangible, real-world implications.

    Take, for instance, schools that leverage partnerships with drone providers to deploy curricula that include practical lesson plans, like surveying local farmland and analyzing soil conditions to help improve crop yields. These projects go beyond theoretical knowledge, teaching students to apply data analytics in meaningful ways. In another example, high school students can design drones to support healthcare initiatives, like delivering medical supplies to remote areas–projects that mirror innovations currently being explored in healthcare logistics. These experiences prepare students for real-world careers and illuminate career pathways that may not have otherwise been obvious or desirable options.

    Bridging the skills gap with experiential learning

    Verticalized skills gaps have become a significant barrier to innovation and economic growth, as many students are graduating without the technical and critical thinking abilities demanded by today’s employers. The gap is particularly evident in data analysis, programming, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity–fields that are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern digital economy.

    This gap continues to widen as technological advancements outpace traditional education methods. In a world increasingly driven by data, students need to learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret information to make informed decisions. Introducing project-based learning centered around data analysis–such as interpreting data sets from environmental studies or designing experiments that involve data collection–gives students hands-on experience in this critical skill area.

    As work becomes increasingly global and cross-functional, students must develop the ability to communicate effectively in diverse teams. Experiential learning projects, such as team-based STEM competitions or group technology builds, teach students the importance of working together toward shared goals while honing their communication skills, mirroring the collaborative environments they will encounter in the workforce.

    Incorporating creativity and human ingenuity in Industry 5.0

    Technical skills are essential, but the distinguishing factor of Industry 5.0 is the synergy between human ingenuity and machine precision. Our ability to innovate and collaborate with machines to solve complex problems will mark this era. Schools should focus on fostering creativity alongside technical training, as the future workforce will be called upon to design new solutions, lead teams, and tackle challenges that have yet to emerge.

    Schools can consider integrating design thinking into their curriculum, where students engage in iterative processes to ideate, prototype, and test solutions to complex problems. In a classroom setting, students could use design thinking to create smart home devices that integrate human comfort with AI precision, focusing on user-centric solutions.

    Entrepreneurship courses in schools will empower students to develop tech startups where they identify a societal problem, design a technological solution, and pitch their idea to judges, peers, and even potential investors. This encourages both creativity in coming up with new ideas and collaboration with technology to make ideas a reality.

    The classroom as a catalyst for the future workforce

    As we move deeper into Industry 5.0, the demand for a workforce that can blend technical skills with innovative problem-solving increases. Integrating hands-on technology like drones into educational environments offers a dynamic way to address this need. It allows students to connect with STEM fields practically and inspiringly. Educators have the crucial responsibility to provide students with the necessary tools and perspectives. By incorporating creative, physical, and project-based lessons into the curriculum, we foster the innovation, adaptability, and collaboration essential for the future workforce.

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    Rob Harvey, FTW Robotics

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  • The M-Cube 02 Laser Level Sticks to Any Wall and Can Measure Too

    The M-Cube 02 Laser Level Sticks to Any Wall and Can Measure Too

    This gadget from the makers of the NeoRuler Go is a laser level that grabs onto vertical surfaces using vacuum suction. It even holds on bumpy surfaces, and its bright laser beams make it easy to hang pictures, install cabinets, and do other things that need precise alignment. The combo kit includes a measuring unit that piggybacks onto the level.

    Crowdfunded projects pose a degree of risk for buyers, so be sure to do your research before paying your hard-earned money.

    Paul Strauss

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  • Edthena Introduces VC3, the Next Evolution of Video Coaching for Educators

    Edthena Introduces VC3, the Next Evolution of Video Coaching for Educators

    SAN FRANCISCO – Edthena is transforming the video coaching process for educators with the launch of VC3, the next evolution of the company’s award-winning video coaching platform. VC3 features new coaching tools that empower teachers and instructional coaches to collaborate more efficiently, gain deeper insights into instructional practice, and engage in more meaningful professional learning.

    “Educators have one of the hardest jobs in the world and they deserve access to the most innovative solutions possible to support their work,” said Adam Geller, founder and CEO of Edthena. “With VC3, educators can more effectively reflect on their practice and access the high-quality coaching needed to ensure their success—and, ultimately, the success of their students—in the classroom.”

    The reimagined video coaching platform draws upon Edthena’s 14 years of experience helping educators add more than two million comments to nearly seven million minutes of classroom video.

    The core of the coaching experience happens within the video conversation page. This is where educators add timestamped feedback to videos of classroom teaching. Not only does the updated conversation page in VC3 make it easier to leave comments, but it also encourages teachers and coaches to deepen their reflections. One example of this emphasis is the Insights tab which helps jumpstart the video analysis process for both coaches and teachers.

    The Insights tab includes several tools: open-ended questions that help inspire the observer for what to look for in the video; a student-to-teacher talk time graph to support a deep-dive into student engagement, language development, and confidence; and, a visual representation of the most frequently used words within the lesson to get a sense for the presence of academic language.

    “With the help of Edthena, we are harnessing the power of video and innovative AI tools to level up our coaching practices,” said Amanda Maceo, professional development implementation strategist for Alief Independent School District. “We love the automatic summaries and closed captioning—they provide us with valuable insights. Plus, the talk time graph makes it easy to set clear and measurable goals for improvement.”

    The VC3 experience is available to all new and existing users. This includes schools, districts, and teacher education programs from more than 20 states and multiple countries that use Edthena to make video observation an integral part of teacher induction, teacher mentoring, professional learning communities (PLCs), and peer observation.

    “Video reflection and facilitative coaching play a pivotal role in the professional development process for teacher residents,” said Halley Maza, an instructor in the University at Buffalo Teacher Residency program. “By leveraging Edthena’s VC3 platform, our program empowers teacher residents to analyze and refine their instructional strategies, fostering self-efficacy through critical reflection and collaborative learning. This approach aligns with our goal of improving student outcomes and preparing educators to meet the diverse needs of their students.”

    To learn more about VC3, visit https://www.edthena.com/vc3.

    About Edthena

    Edthena provides innovative technologies to support educator professional learning by streamlining feedback to teachers. The companyoffers the AI Coach platform, an artificial intelligence-driven solution to guide teachers through coaching cycles; VC3, the classroom observation and collaboration platform for video coaching; and Edthena Organization Libraries, a platform for schools and districts to curate and share best-practice teaching videos. Edthena is the recipient of numerous awards from organizations such as SIIA, District Administration, and Tech & Learning. For more information, visit www.edthena.com. For more news about Edthena, visit www.edthena.com/blog/.

    eSchool News Staff
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    ESchool News Staff

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  • iFixit’s Portable Soldering Iron Deserves a Space on Your Work Bench

    iFixit’s Portable Soldering Iron Deserves a Space on Your Work Bench

    The right-to-repair movement has a catchy name, but before you can worry about the right to repair, you need the ability to repair. If you don’t know how to take your device apart, there’s no sense worrying about whether it’s legal to do so. Without basic repair skills and a helping of innate curiosity, the right to repair is useless.

    This is where iFixit’s new Hub Soldering Iron enters the fray. iFixit, a longtime supporter of the right to repair, has thousands of tutorials online to help you actually repair things. Now the company has made a soldering iron to help you roll up your sleeves and get into the physical world of repair.

    The Right to Solder

    I grew up around soldering. My father built his own tube-powered ham radio gear, but for whatever reason I never actually did any soldering until rather late in my repair life. An electrician friend of mine was appalled that I didn’t solder on a regular basis and gifted me a bare-bones soldering iron, which was all I had for an embarrassingly long time. Later I bought a Pinecil, mostly for the small, portable form factor, but that cheapo soldering iron was all I had for years.

    While a cheap soldering iron is better than no soldering iron, I’ve come to think the reason many people are intimidated by soldering, or have problems when they first try it, is due to cheap soldering pens. Cheap tools are the source of many a problem, but with soldering irons the big one is that they don’t get hot enough, which makes the solder stick to the tip rather than flowing nicely where you want it. Cheap irons also lack interchangeable tips, which make soldering easier by fitting exactly where you want them to go.

    iFixit, which made its name in the repair world creating guides, tutorials, and more all designed to help consumers be more than consumers, has launched a new store called the Fix Hub. The first product is a portable USB-C soldering iron.

    Photograph: Scott Gilbertson

    iFixit’s new soldering iron is actually several products. The core is the Smart Soldering Iron for $80. It’s powered by USB-C and comes with a beveled, 1.5-mm tip. (There are six tips available, and iFixit plans to have more.) Then there’s the Portable Soldering Station for $250, which includes the iron and a battery pack designed for the iron. The final option is the Complete Toolkit for $300, which includes everything from the soldering station package, plus useful tools like wire strippers, flush cutters, solder, flux, a wire holder, cleaner, and more.

    The thing that jumps out at you the most when first opening the kit is the magnetic cap. This is a thing of genius. It not only covers the tip, but you can put it on even when the tip is hot, and it will automatically power down to the idle temperature (which you can set in the app). Every soldering iron should have a cap like this. This feature alone makes iFixit’s soldering iron great for beginners. The cap also has a wire attachment that allows it to be mounted on the battery pack.

    There are other user-friendly features, like an LED system that warns you when the iron is hot and motion sensors to detect when you set it down for a while (which cause it to automatically shut off). The motion sensors can also detect if you drop it and will shut it off automatically. I tested all three of these features, and they worked without issue.

    Scott Gilbertson

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  • The Greenworks 60V Lawn Mower Is for People Who Just Want to Get Their Grass Cut

    The Greenworks 60V Lawn Mower Is for People Who Just Want to Get Their Grass Cut

    I have a core childhood memory of standing in the expansive yard of a family friend who lived out in farm country, trying to get their old gas mower to start. I tugged the pull cord in vain for what seemed like hours, the engine rolling over lazily without ever spinning to life.

    So there was no question I was going to be an early and enthusiastic adopter of electric lawnmowers, making the switch right around the same time I replaced my VHS tapes with Blu-ray.

    I’ve had at least six electric mowers since—some plug-ins, some battery-powered. At one point I even hacked a Homelite mower I liked except for its underpowered proprietary battery, by soldering its connectors to a better lithium battery (I probably did my math wrong; the battery melted). Every one of those electric mowers felt like it sacrificed something you could get from a traditional internal combustion engine mower, trading an annoying extension cord or underpowered battery for instant start, less noise, and no smoke.

    That is, until the Greenworks 60V 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower, which I’ve been testing on my lawn this summer. After four months of testing I’ve found this model from Greenworks does everything I need a mower to do to my Midwestern lawn, and does it with grace. If you’re a lawn enthusiast I’m sure there are mowers with more options and features to consider. But I don’t want to think too much about my mower—I just want to push a button, walk around my yard, chop a few inches off the top of my grass, then roll it back into the garage. This Greenworks mower is the first electric mower I’ve owned that does that.

    Sixty Beats Forty

    The first thing I want to know about an electric mower is how easy it is to handle the battery. I’m sure I’m not alone in being past corded electric mowers that, until a few years ago, still offered the best combination of power and price. The Greenworks has dual battery ports that will each hold a 60V battery, though I’ve only used one. That 5-Ah battery provides enough power to cut my small lawn two times with turbo on or three and a half times on standard. My lawn only has about 3,000 square feet of grass, though, and in the United States, residential lawns average about 10,000 square feet, according to Home Advisor. (If you live in Vermont or Montana you will probably want that second battery.) The advertised range is up to an acre, which is 43,560 square feet, but even with both batteries fully and freshly charged I would not expect to get there based on my range in testing.

    Photograph: Martin Cizmar

    Because it’s a 60V system, it has more power than the more common 40V systems, which makes a big difference when it comes to dealing with leaves. With a peak power output of 3200 RPMs (toward the top of the standard range for a gas mower) using the turbo mode, I’ve found the Greenworks has enough power to mulch leaves, though long wet grass drained the battery much faster than I would have expected—a leftover half-charge on a single battery wasn’t enough to finish my small yard.

    Martin Cizmar

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  • Top 10 Tools for Improving Workplace Productivity in 2024 – Southwest Journal

    Top 10 Tools for Improving Workplace Productivity in 2024 – Southwest Journal

    The pace of the modern workplace can really pick up speed these days with all our digital ways of getting things done. Finding ways to work efficiently is more important than ever.

    It’s important we take a look at the tools that can help make our jobs a little less hectic.

    Let’s discuss some options that could help streamline how we work and boost our productivity. 

    Knowing what’s out there can really help us save time and energy for what matters most.

    1. OnPay

    A Woman Using OnPay HR Software on A Laptop

    OnPay helps with handling payroll and all things HR. It looks like it takes the complicated stuff, like payroll, taxes, and benefits, and streamlines it through solid automation.

    Employees probably love the self-service portal too – it gives them easy access to their info and builds more transparency. As a business, it takes compliance worries off your plate since OnPay keeps up with changing tax rules. That’s a big relief!

    I can see why HR loves OnPay. Connecting with other accounting and time-tracking tools lets them spend more time on growth plans versus paperwork. 

    Pretty cool that it pulls everything together in one handy place. If you’re looking for ways to simplify processes and comply with everything, OnPay sounds like it deserves a good look. If you want to learn more about this one, click here.

    2. Respona

    Respona is really helpful for teams doing a lot with link-building and PR campaigns. It automates the whole outreach process from finding new contacts to sending follow-up messages.

    I like that it has a built-in search tool to efficiently uncover people to engage with. And keeping email addresses accurate as you communicate saves a lot of headaches later on.

    The automation is probably a lifesaver for PR teams. Instead of spending hours on routine tasks, they can focus their energy on creative content and strategy. No wonder it boosts productivity and campaign success!

    For agencies with multiple clients, Respona’s tools must be a dream come true. Being able to execute precise campaigns across the board with minimal manual work would save so much stress. Definitely one tool I’d recommend checking out.

    3. ProofHub


    ProofHub looks like it could be great for teams juggling lots of different projects at once. Having all your task and project management in one central place must streamline everything.

    I like that it offers tools for delegating work, setting timelines, and tracking hours. That level of organization probably helps everyone stay accountable and on schedule.

    Customizing workflows and visual task views seem perfect for managers to spot where things are backing up and redistribute work smoothly. Communication and file sharing features also keep important info flowing between team members.

    Keeping all projects coordinated without overwhelm is so important. ProofHub sounds like it could really help project teams stay aligned on objectives without losing sight of the details. Definitely one tool worth checking and demoing if you want all your project management in one helpful hub.

    4. Shift

    The Shift is a real game-changer for the way we navigate the digital world. Instead of hopping between a million different sites and apps, it brings everything together in one slick interface.

    I can see how the search and calendar tools would make tasks way more seamless without constant tab switching. Organizing your tools into focused “workspaces” probably cuts out a ton of clutter and prevents distractions too.

    For folks who rely on various software daily, Shift’s centralization could be a huge timesaver. No more minutes wasted moving between programs – everything’s streamlined in one place.

    It’s like Shift revolutionizes how we manage our online lives. Having all accounts and resources so neatly organized has to seriously boost productivity. For anyone drowning in tabs or apps, this sounds like it’s really worth a look.

    5. Todoist

    Todoist - A To-Do List to Organize Your Work & LifeTodoist - A To-Do List to Organize Your Work & Life

    Todoist is one of the best tools for wrangling all your work into order. With it, you can build custom task lists, adjust priority levels, and categorize projects to stay on top of daily duties and long-term goals.

    I know workflow is key – that’s why Todoist integrates with tons of other apps so well. Bounce between devices and programs without missing a beat. One place to manage everything is clutch.

    Whether you’re working solo or on a massive team, Todoist’s intuitive layout and options make it extremely versatile too. The app speaks your language no matter what kind of tasks you face.

    Complex schedules got you down? Todoist helps you break projects into bite-sized pieces that feel totally manageable. Finally getting organized is such a game-changer for productivity – and Todoist makes it a breeze. 

    6. Trello

    Trello is such a cool way for teams to map out projects visually. With its boards and card setup, you can effortlessly track progress by dragging tasks between columns as milestones are hit.

    I like that setting up boards keeps everything neatly organized by project too. The automation features are clutch – things like automatic reminders and status updates save so much time.

    Can you imagine how much smoother meetings must go when issues are right there on the board? No confusion about where things stand. Collaborating in real-time has to make the process way more engaging.

    If you want a simple, visual tool that streamlines project tracking without all the fuss, Trello is an amazing pick. I can see why it’s beloved by so many teams.

    7. Slack

    A Slack Chat Interface Showing a Countdown for A Launch EventA Slack Chat Interface Showing a Countdown for A Launch Event

    Slack has totally changed the game for how teams connect and share info. Instead of endless email chains and meetings, it pulls all your conversations into one handy place that’s simple to search.

    I love how it lets you split into channels based on topic too. Direct messages are great for private chats. And wow, being able to connect apps must take collaboration to the next level.

    No more digging for that snippet someone said last week. With Slack, important discussions and quick updates live right at your fingertips. That kind of accessibility has to streamline workflows like nothing else.

    It’s easy to see why Slack is such a go-to in today’s workplace. Whether you’re debating details or sharing status checks, it supports natural communication in ways that boost productivity for good. An absolute must-have for modern teams!

    8. Asana

    Asana is a super helpful way for teams to stay synced on all their projects. You can craft detailed to-do lists, set timelines, and delegate work – keeping tabs on tasks is that much smoother.

    I like that you can customize the workflows too. That level of flexibility probably helps projects run extra smoothly. Tracking progress is key for keeping everyone accountable.

    Managers must love how Asana gives clear visibility into where things stand. No more guessing if delays are creeping in. Just make sure everyone’s on the same page.

    Coordinating teams can feel like herding cats some days. Asana’s tools look perfect for maintaining that alignment and driving true collaboration. When you need rock-solid project management, this one is a no-brainer.

    9. Google Workspace

    Google Workspace for Improving Workplace ProductivityGoogle Workspace for Improving Workplace Productivity

    Google Workspace is incredible for taking teamwork to the next level. With apps like Gmail, Drive, Docs, and Calendar all connected, collaborating is seamless.

    Sharing files and scheduling meetings between teams is effortless. And I love that Workspace lets you access everything from anywhere – talk about flexibility!

    The interface is super intuitive too. No learning curves there. And those collaboration perks have to seriously optimize how businesses operate.

    When streamlining is the name of the game, Google Workspace is unbeatable. Foster that cooperative spirit while boosting productivity. Yes, please! If you want powerful yet easy tools for teams, this is the suite for you.

    10. Evernote

    Evernote is hands-down one of the best ways to get your life organized. 

    I love that you can capture any type of info from scribbles to web pages. Talk about an all-in-one brain dump! Having important stuff so easily searchable is such a time-saver too.

    Maybe you’re someone who’s always scrambling to find that one note. Or always starting projects from scratch since your files are buried. Evernote puts an end to that madness for good.

    Productivity and efficiency are within reach when you can rely on Evernote to be your trusted second brain. 

    The Bottom Line

    A Man Using Tools for Improving Workplace ProductivityA Man Using Tools for Improving Workplace Productivity
    This Image Is Generated by Midjourney

    Picking the right work tools is so important these days when everything moves a million miles an hour. 

    The apps mentioned really do make adapting much easier.

    Each one offers unique ways to smooth out processes, foster teamwork, and optimize how you spend your time. 

    Natasa Pantelic

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