Performance in a pandemic: How Yale artists adapted to life during COVID
One of the COVID-19 pandemic’s many harsh impacts has been its stifling effect on live performance. From the days when Broadway went dark to the crash of the arts economy that followed, performers worldwide have felt the consequences of the pandemic over the past two years.
The same has also been true at Yale, which is home to dozens of performance groups, not to mention hundreds of students whose academic curricula require honing their skills in front of live audiences.
But, as they say, the show must go on. And from the earliest days of the pandemic, through the recurrent waves, Yalies have taken creative steps to keep performance alive, exploring ways to engage in their craft — and connect with audiences — in safe and meaningful ways.
This spring, the campus has enjoyed a slow return of live performance, from the reopening of the Yale Repertory Theatre in February to in-person concerts at Yale School of Music. But the process has been a slow, unsteady one, forcing students, faculty, and staff to find innovative ways to convene with each other and communicate their art to audiences. They’ve produced online plays, staged virtual musical collaborations, recorded dance videos, and devised strategies that allowed technical crews to operate remotely.
More than two years since stages went quiet, we take a look back at some of these ways the Yale community found to keep performing.
“Together, we adapted,” said Yale School of Music Dean Robert Blocker. “And with the help of technology and even the availability of outdoor spaces on our campus, our students have been able to continue their impassioned work, albeit in less-than ideal circumstances.”
Finding the ‘mood in a Zoom room’
For the Theater and Performance Studies program, whose mission is grounded in live, embodied transmission of knowledge, the pandemic presented obvious and immediate barriers. During the first year of the pandemic, including the entirety of the 2020-21 school year, social distancing requirements prevented artists from rehearsing onstage and performing before audiences in theaters.
So in February, 2021, Emily Coates, professor in the practice of Theater and Performance Studies, helped launch a new project. “Transpositions: Dance Poems for an Online World” gave artists work and creative outlets, while fostering connections for students through space.
Created in collaboration with the Yale Dance Lab — a faculty-directed, co-curricular arts research initiative — in partnership with the Yale Schwarzman Center, the project connected students with 16 professional choreographers to create digital “dance poems.”
“The project helped us learn more about what the virtual space can and can’t do,” said Coates, who has a secondary appointment in the directing program at the David Geffen School of Drama. “‘Space-eating,’ a stage practice that enables performers to fly across a stage, which makes dance spectacular — is not an option, squeezed in a bedroom, dancing between your bed and dresser!”
But Coates and the other Transpositions collaborators found surprising possibilities of dancing on Zoom.
“Energy exchange is possible over Zoom — that was a clear lesson,” Coates said. “You can feel the mood in a Zoom room, and you can tune in to what another mover is putting out into the space, even on mute, by really listening to their energy.”
Theater Studies professors Nathan Roberts and Elise Morrison also explored some of the profound possibilities of digital performance. The pair co-taught a course during the spring semester in 2021 year called “Alone Together: Live Performance during COVID-19.”
“When Broadway shut down in March 2020, it didn’t seem clear how performance would continue,” Roberts said. “Elise and I noticed there were an astonishing amount of creative performance that occurred in the eight months immediately after that moment that was really worthy of attention and study.”
The course analyzed past digital works and culminated in an original live performance by two students over Zoom. The performance, titled “Camera-Ready,” explored themes of surveillance through a “choose your own adventure” style plot, allowing the audience to make choices that would influence the paths the show could take.
“Our hope in creating this class was to help students understand that the work emerging in the midst of the global pandemic was extraordinary, but that it was actually a continuation of a long lineage of digital performance,” Roberts said.
In his role as production manager for the curricular Theater Studies season, Roberts and his colleague, Technical Director Tom Delgado, helped students and faculty use technology to create an innovative and robust virtual theater season during the pandemic.
Working with Yale Information Technology Services, they set up remote network systems so that individual actors could access the theater while stage and tech crews worked remotely. These systems allowed directors, lighting designers, sound engineers, and stage managers to control digital equipment far from the stage.
In fact, for one show — a senior project by Chayton Pabich Danyla ‘21 called “Flores caídos” — a stage manager triggered lighting, sound, and camera cues using his smartphone. At the time he was in California. For this show, Pabich Danyla was allowed to work unmasked, in total isolation in the theater, while all other collaborators worked remotely. This show, which premiered in October 2020, was the first senior project of the 2020-2021 season, and the department’s first attempt at a virtual production.
“Our students are developing skills that are going to serve them in their work beyond Yale, because they’ve been practiced in crafting digital theater,” said Roberts. “It’s going to be another tool they can draw upon in making their own work marketable to producers, designers and directors.”
Finding silver linings
During the first year of the pandemic, student extracurricular groups also used hybrid formats. Rhythmic Blue, Yale’s hip hop-inspired dance group, learned dances on Zoom and recorded videos of their group dancing in-person and distanced in Beinecke Plaza. The group shared videos on social media, creating a series of virtual dance numbers.
“While connecting and dancing over Zoom was lovely, nothing beats moving together and feeding off each other’s energy in real life,” said Ke’ala Akau ’22, who served as co-president of Rhythmic Blue last year. “[But] during a time that often felt so physically isolating, I cherished the opportunity to simply be with people.”
The hybrid experience revealed some other silver linings.
“Learning movement over Zoom comes with its own challenges such as impaired visibility of the choreographer, directionality challenges, and missing out on nuances in the choreographer’s quality of movement,” Akau said. “This made it difficult to exactly match the choreographer. However, I believe these changes allowed for more interesting, stylistic interpretation of the movements which, as a choreographer, I loved seeing.”
This year, members of Rhythmic Blue were able to resume in-person semester showcases with reduced capacity and masked dancers and audience members.
COVID-19 also disrupted Yale’s vibrant a cappella community. By developing careful public health procedures, however, campus groups were able to resume in-person performances this spring.
The Yale Singing Group Council (SGC), an umbrella organization for a cappella groups led by four senior co-chairs, helped make it possible for a safe return to in-person singing by crafting protocols. This year’s season kicked off in early September with a hybrid concert in Sheffield-Sterling-Strathcona Hall featuring 16 groups singing before prospective group members.
“The excitement and enthusiasm for a cappella from groups and prospective members this year was unlike any other I’ve seen,” said Grace Larrabee ’22, a SGC co-chair who is a member of the group Whim ‘n Rhythm. “The a cappella community on Yale’s campus is so special. I felt honored to have been a part of its return.”
All together now
During the 2020-21 school year, rehearsals for the Yale Symphony Orchestra (YSO) were performed virtually on Zoom, with groups of musicians split up by instrument.
Last fall, however, musicians were able to rehearse live and in real time, wearing masks. Featuring 93 members, the orchestra performs four concerts per year, plus specialty concerts such as the Halloween Show and a joint “Messiah” concert with the Yale Glee Club. Tickets for this year’s Halloween Show, which was held in person with restricted capacity, sold out in under a minute.
“The fact that musicians are able to gather in one place and make music again was a breath of fresh air,” said Supriya Weiss ’24, student president of YSO.
A few weeks into rehearsal last fall, Weiss relished the energy of returning to performance. “You can hear the excitement of the orchestra in every note we play. More than anything, this past year showed me the unwavering resilience of our musicians.”
At the Yale School of Music, during the early months of the pandemic students relied on online instruction and outdoor rehearsals in response to public health restrictions, said Dean Robert Blocker.
Now, nearly two years later, the School of Music is inviting audiences to witness the extraordinary musical gifts of students in person once again. Concerts at the Yale School of Music, which are held in venues such as Sudler Recital Hall, Morse Recital Hall, and Woolsey Hall, are now open to members of the public who are asymptomatic and vaccinated.
“Performing for live audiences is what drives and motivates us, and it is what inspires and offers hope to our audiences,” Blocker said. “For our students, whose optimism and spirit gave us the confidence to find a way forward during seemingly impossible conditions, this moment is well deserved.”
Article originally published at YaleNews: https://news.yale.edu/2022/05/06/performance-pandemic-how-yale-artists-adapted-life-during-covid
7 Ways to Protect Children During a Divorce
Divorce is rarely easy — for parents and especially for children. As you try to untangle your lives and move forward, your children’s well-being often becomes one of your biggest concerns. You might be working with a top Chicago divorce lawyer or a legal team that has a great track record of fighting for their clients. And you absolutely need the best team on your side to stand up for your rights. But how do you shield them from the stress, confusion, and emotions that accompany such a major change? While you can’t erase the challenges of divorce altogether, there are thoughtful steps you can take to protect and support your children during this time.
Divorce can feel overwhelming for everyone involved, but for children, it often stirs fear and uncertainty. Younger kids may struggle to understand what’s happening, while older kids might feel the burden of divided loyalties or parental conflict. Without proper care, these emotional challenges can have long-term effects on a child’s behavior, relationships, and mental health.
Studies have indicated that divorce can have actual, measurable impacts on children’s emotional well-being and development. According to the American Bar Association, children of divorced parents are much more likely to face mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, data from UCL suggests that children from divorced families often experience a 20–25% increase in academic difficulties compared to their peers. Furthermore, long-term studies show that divorce could increase the likelihood of children encountering trust issues in adult relationships, with approximately 35% reporting struggles in forming secure attachments later in life. These statistics underscore the importance of mindful parenting and supportive measures to mitigate such effects during and after a divorce.
Your role as a parent is to provide reassurance and security, even in times of instability. By prioritizing your child’s needs and taking specific actions, you can soften divorce’s impact and help them thrive despite the changes.
Here are seven ways to prioritize your child’s emotional health and create a stable foundation as your family adjusts to its new reality.
1. Keep Conflict Away from Your Kids
Children are like emotional sponges, and exposure to parental arguments can leave lasting scars. Whether you’re debating finances or simply airing grievances, it’s vital to keep those conversations well out of earshot.
Instead, aim to present a calm and united front, especially when discussing topics that directly impact your child. If face-to-face communication with your ex becomes heated, consider using written communication or involving a mediator to keep things civil.
2. Reassure Them That They’re Not to Blame
You might be surprised how often kids blame themselves for their parents’ separation. They may think they caused arguments by behaving poorly or feel responsible for fixing the family.
Be clear and consistent in letting them know the divorce is not their fault. Use age-appropriate language to explain that this is an adult decision and has nothing to do with their actions or worth. Simple reassurances like “Mom and Dad just couldn’t get along anymore” can make a world of difference.
3. Maintain Routines Wherever Possible
Divorce introduces plenty of changes, but sticking to familiar routines can give your child a sense of stability. Keep meals, bedtime rituals, and extracurricular activities as consistent as possible.
Even when custody arrangements mean switching between homes, having a similar schedule in both households can help your child adjust to the new normal. A shared calendar or routine book can also make transitions easier and reduce anxiety.
4. Listen to Their Feelings Without Judgment
Your child needs to feel safe expressing their emotions, even if they’re uncomfortable for you to hear. They may feel sadness, anger, confusion, or even guilt. Your job is to listen, empathize, and validate their feelings — not to correct or dismiss them.
Try using open-ended questions like “How are you feeling about things lately?” or “What’s been the hardest part for you?” And don’t rush to offer solutions too quickly; sometimes, a listening ear is all they need to feel supported.
5. Co-Parent with Respect
Even if your ex is the last person you feel like being cordial with, remember that your co-parenting relationship has a huge impact on your child’s well-being. Minimize negativity and avoid badmouthing your ex in front of your child.
Work together to make decisions with your child’s best interests in mind, and communicate clearly around logistics like schedules, school events, and medical appointments. Collaboration, not competition, should be the goal.
6. Seek Professional Support When Needed
Some children handle divorce relatively well, while others may struggle to cope. If your child shows signs of anxiety, anger, or withdrawal that you can’t manage on your own, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Therapists and counselors can provide your child with valuable tools to process their emotions. Family therapy may also help you and your ex create a healthier co-parenting relationship. It’s not a sign of failure to seek professional support; it’s a way of showing your child that their mental health is a priority.
7. Focus on Quality Time Together
Regardless of the custody arrangement, make the time you spend with your child count. Quality time isn’t about extravagant outings or gifts; it’s about being present and engaged in your child’s life.
Play board games, help with homework, go for walks, or even just sit and chat over a meal. These moments of connection help reinforce your love and provide a much-needed sense of security during a time of change.
Divorce may not be easy, but it doesn’t have to derail your child’s emotional development. By minimizing conflict, maintaining routines, and listening with empathy, you can provide the love and stability they need to weather the storm.
Remember, every family’s situation is unique, and you may need to adapt these tips to suit your circumstances. If you need additional guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support. Your child’s well-being is worth every effort.
5 Interior Design Trends That Will Make Your Home Stand Out in 2025
Interior design is evolving to embrace innovation, sustainability, and personalization. Homeowners are seeking ways to make their spaces more functional and stylish and reflect their personalities. The new wave of interior trends blends modern aesthetics with timeless appeal. If you’re planning a complete renovation or want to refresh your living space, keeping up with the trends can help you make design choices that stand the test of time.
This year’s trends focus on enhancing both the visual and practical aspects of interiors. There is a strong emphasis on sustainability, with many homeowners choosing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions. Bold design choices, like statement ceilings and unique textures, are gaining popularity, allowing for more expressive and dynamic home decor.
Understanding these key trends can provide inspiration and direction for those who want to keep their homes looking fresh and up-to-date. Whether you plan to make small changes or major transformations, these five interior design trends will help elevate your home’s style.
Earthy Color Palettes
Neutral tones and nature-inspired colors are making a strong comeback. Earthy hues like warm browns, terracottas, muted greens, and soft beiges create a cozy and calming atmosphere. These aesthetically pleasing shades promote well-being, making them perfect for any living space.
Incorporating these tones into your home can be done in several ways, from painting walls to selecting furniture and decor in complementary shades. Earthy colors work well in open spaces and can be paired with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen for a harmonious look. Whether you prefer a rustic aesthetic or a more modern feel, these tones provide versatility and timeless elegance.
If you’re unsure about committing to a new color scheme, consider using earthy tones in accent pieces like throw pillows, rugs, or curtains. For those looking for a professional touch, a quick area search like painters Canberra can help ensure a flawless finish that enhances the natural beauty of your space.
Multifunctional Spaces
With the increasing demand for flexible living, multifunctional spaces have become a major trend. Homeowners are looking for ways to maximize every square foot, especially as remote work and hybrid lifestyles continue to shape our lives.
Optimizing your home requires creating spaces that serve multiple purposes without compromising style. Foldable desks, hidden storage solutions, and convertible furniture allow for a seamless transition between different functions. A living room can double as a home office, while a guest bedroom can transform into a workout space with smart storage solutions.
Designing a multifunctional space requires careful planning and intentional design choices. Using room dividers, built-in shelving, and modular furniture can help create an organized yet flexible environment. The goal is to create a space that adapts to your needs while maintaining a cohesive and stylish aesthetic.
Statement Ceilings
Statement ceilings are taking center stage in interior design. They add an unexpected element of creativity and drama to a space. Statement ceilings with bold paint colors, intricate wallpaper designs, or wooden paneling can transform a room.
One of the easiest ways to make a ceiling stand out is by using a contrasting paint color. Deep blues, emerald greens, or even metallic finishes can create a striking visual impact. For a more textural approach, coffered or beamed ceilings add depth and sophistication to a room, making it feel more luxurious and well-designed.
Another popular option is incorporating wallpaper with unique patterns or murals on the ceiling. This trend is particularly effective in bedrooms and living areas, where an artistic or nature-inspired design can enhance the space. Statement ceilings allow homeowners to add character to their interiors without overwhelming the overall decor.
Sustainable Materials
Sustainability continues to be a driving force in interior design. Homeowners are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and are choosing stylish and eco-friendly materials. From reclaimed wood to recycled metal and energy-efficient lighting, sustainable choices are shaping the future of home design.
One of the easiest ways to incorporate sustainability into your home is using furniture and decor made from renewable or recycled materials. Bamboo flooring, cork wall coverings, and reclaimed wood furniture add a unique charm and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and finishes are becoming more popular as they improve indoor air quality and reduce harmful emissions.
Eco-friendly design doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Many sustainable products now come in a variety of modern and chic designs, so homeowners can embrace this trend without compromising aesthetics.
Textured Walls
Textured walls are gaining momentum to add depth and interest to interiors. Homeowners are moving beyond traditional painted walls and embracing textured finishes like Venetian plaster, limewash, and decorative wall panels. These surfaces create a sophisticated and tactile element that enhances the look of a space.
One of the most popular applications of this trend is using limewash paint to achieve a soft, cloud-like effect on walls. This technique adds a subtle texture and brings warmth and character to a room.
You can use materials like exposed brick, wood paneling, and 3D wall tiles to create a statement wall that becomes a focal point in any space. Whether you choose a subtle texture or a bold statement wall, this trend offers a creative way to personalize your home and elevate its style.
Final Thoughts
The interior design trends of 2025 reflect a shift toward personalization, sustainability, and functionality. Whether you’re drawn to nature-inspired color palettes, multifunctional spaces, or bold statement ceilings, these trends offer something for every style preference.
Keeping your home updated with these design elements enhances its aesthetic appeal and improves comfort and practicality. Refreshing your home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By incorporating small yet impactful changes, you can create a space that feels modern, stylish, and uniquely yours.
Secrets to Finding the Best Foodie Spots While Traveling
Food and travel are like a perfect cheese/wine pairing. There’s pretty much no better way to immerse yourself in a new culture than by eating as the locals do. But finding the best foodie spots while traveling can be tricky. Do you play it safe with recommendations from well-known travel guides? Or do you venture far off the beaten path with the risk of winding up somewhere mediocre at best? Luckily, there’s an art (and a bit of strategy) to uncovering those hidden culinary gems. Whether you’re dreaming of slurping the perfect ramen in a tucked-away Tokyo alley or tasting buttery croissants at a café that Parisians swear by, this guide will equip you with tried-and-true methods for finding unforgettable food stops on your adventures.
Experiencing food as a traveler is as much about the culture as it is about the flavors. A city’s beloved family-run restaurant or that bustling food market is likely loaded with history and meaning. By tapping into this perspective, you’ll begin to see your foodie exploration as a gateway to authentic connection with the places and people around you.
Now, how exactly do you find those special spots?
Tip #1: Get Lost… With a Purpose
Some of the most memorable meals you’ll have won’t be marked with neon signs or five-star Google reviews. Take a stroll away from tourist-heavy areas and follow your instincts. Look for tiny restaurants buzzing with locals. The lunch spot where office workers are chatting over hearty plates? The corner café crowded on a Tuesday morning? Go there.
One tell-tale sign? A small menu. If a restaurant offers only five options, chances are they’ve mastered those dishes to perfection. Bonus if it’s written entirely in the local language (though you may need your translation app handy).
But don’t just rely on luck. Download offline maps, familiarize yourself with public transit, or use apps like Foursquare and Hidden Places to guide serendipity along.
Tip #2: Take a Small Group Culinary Trip
Sometimes, having someone curate a foodie experience for you is the best choice — not to mention it frees you from the legwork. Signing up for a small group culinary tour is a brilliant way to cut straight to the chase.
Perfect for both solo travelers and groups, these tours are led by local food experts who highlight hidden gems you might never have discovered otherwise. Think hole-in-the-wall noodle shops, tucked-away wineries, or night markets you’d never have found on your own.
For example, in Mexico City, a taco tour might take you beyond al pastor and into the world of suadero or cochinita pibil tacos. In Vietnam, a guided motorbike excursion through Hanoi could introduce you to bun cha spots that Anthony Bourdain once raved about. Or in Italy, an all-inclusive small-group travel for food & wine lovers could have you harvesting wine or olives with small family-run producers that rarely see tourists.
The best part? You’ll often learn about the history behind local ingredients, dishes, and cooking traditions, adding an extra layer of depth to your culinary adventures.
Tip #3: Join the Digital Foodie Community
Food lovers online are truly the greatest people you’ll never meet. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are brimming with travel-obsessed foodies sharing recommendations for drool-worthy dishes. Start by searching hashtags like #MadridFoodie or #BangkokEats to find trending food spots in your destination.
For something more tailored, connect with local foodie Facebook groups. Locals love sharing their opinions, and you might stumble upon insider tips that won’t appear on TripAdvisor’s “Top 10” lists.
Additionally, don’t overlook curated websites or communities like Eater, Chowhound, or The Infatuation. They often review spots with both nuance and an eye for authenticity, which means you can skip the tourist traps and head straight to the culinary heart of a city.
Tip #4: Find the Food Markets
Every great city has at least one food market where the locals gather. Markets are where you can experience fresh, authentic flavors while watching the rhythm of everyday life unfold.
Want the best seafood in Lisbon? Head straight to Mercado da Ribeira. Feeling fancy in Florence? Mercato di San Lorenzo has both truffle-tasting stalls and locals gossiping over espresso. Not only can you sample regional staples like skewers or pastries, but you can often chat with the vendors. Most of them will happily tell you about their favorite nearby restaurants.
Pro tip? Get there early. The freshest ingredients get snapped up fast, and mornings are when you’ll see the market alive with energy.
Tip #5: Follow the Locals
Here’s a question worth asking the next time you’re chatting with your Airbnb host, cab driver, or friendly tour guide. “Where do you go for the best food?”
Locals know their cities better than any flashy travel blog ever could. Ask them not just for restaurant names but specific dishes! “Where’s the best laksa here?” will get a much better response than “What’s a good place to eat?” Locals love showcasing their city’s flavors, and often they’ll direct you to humble, underrated gems rather than overpriced spots catering to tourists.
If you’re on a tour, the guides are another great resource. Whether they’re bringing you through an art museum or leading a hike, chances are they have a favorite neighborhood haunt.
Tip #6: Don’t Forget the Apps
Your smartphone is a powerful tool when traveling for food. Apps like Yelp and Zomato are handy in cities where they’ve built robust communities. That said, take the reviews with a pinch of salt and focus on detailed write-ups that align with your preferences.
Another underrated hero? Google Translate. When you’re faced with a menu written in a language you don’t understand, translating it could lead to your next favorite dish. (Pro tip: ditch the urge to only order what you recognize. Be adventurous!)
If you’re looking for something more location-specific, there are food-dedicated apps too. Try TheFork for restaurant reservations in Europe or Meituan for insights into Chinese eateries.
Exploring a city’s food scene is more than just eating; it’s experiencing its identity and culture. Whether you’re tracking down street food in Bangkok or delighting in a Michelin-star meal in Paris, remember one golden rule: seek the soul behind the dish.
Steps for Choosing Business Tech That Integrates
Technology has revolutionized the way businesses operate, streamlining processes, boosting efficiency, and enabling smarter decision-making. But when your technologies don’t quite “talk” to each other, it can turn innovation into frustration. Disconnected systems lead to data silos, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities — a headache no business wants.
Choosing business tech that integrates seamlessly isn’t just about buying fancy software or gadgets. It’s about building a cohesive ecosystem that aligns with your needs and scales with your growth. So how do you ensure all your tech works well together? And what are the benefits if you smash it and get your integrated tech spot on?
Integrated technology means your tools and systems work harmoniously to share data, processes, and workflows without requiring manual intervention. Imagine your sales team updating a deal in CRM software and watching that information automatically populate your invoicing system. That’s the power of integration — less manual work, fewer mistakes, and more strategic decision-making.
Without integration, businesses face scattered data, redundancies, and inefficiencies. Now, the key is implementing tools that fit into a smoothly interconnected framework. Here’s how you can get that done.
Step 1. Start with Mapping Your Needs
Before investing in any tech, take a step back and identify your pain points and goals. Integration starts with understanding your business’s unique requirements.
Ask yourself (or your team):
- What daily tasks take the most time?
- What data sources are critical to your operations?
- Which manual processes can be automated?
For example, if managing invoices across teams is cumbersome, you may need tech compatible with your accounting software. Or, if you want more visibility into customer behaviors, integration between customer relationship management (CRM) and marketing platforms is essential.
Map out workflows, list data dependencies, and specify goals like saving time, cutting costs, or improving customer insights.
Step 2. Look Into ERP Platforms
One of the most effective ways to ensure integration is by leveraging ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software, which acts as the central hub for all your tech systems.
ERP software connects functions like finance, HR, operations, and supply chain in one cohesive ecosystem. Think of it as the strong foundation your tech stack is built upon. Modern ERP allow for easy customization and third-party add-ons, so everything communicates seamlessly.
While investing in ERP may seem costly, the efficiencies it creates — automated workflows, unified data, and fewer discrepancies — deliver tremendous ROI over time.
Are you ready to go all-in with ERP, or do you need a more modular approach? This is where the next steps come into play.
Step 3. Choose Tools with Open APIs
The flexibility of your tech stack hinges on its ability to connect. That’s why modern tools with open APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) should be at the top of your list.
Open APIs allow different systems to “talk” to one another securely and exchange information seamlessly. For example, QuickBooks’ API can integrate with your sales and inventory software to automatically update finances with each transaction.
When evaluating potential tools, always check whether they offer API compatibility and integrations with your existing systems. Bonus points for platforms that support no-code or low-code integrations — a non-technical team will thank you.
Step 4. Assess Vendor Compatibility and Support
Not all tech partnerships are created equal. Choosing tech isn’t just about the software; it’s also about the company behind it.
Ask these questions when vetting vendors:
- Does this tool have pre-built integrations with my existing platforms?
- What’s the level of customer support? (And is it 24/7?)
- Does the vendor regularly update and maintain compatibility with new tools?
A good partner will help you implement the tools smoothly, train your teams, and troubleshoot integration hiccups along the way. Don’t settle for less — your business deserves reliable allies.
Step 5. Conduct a Trial Run
Once you’ve narrowed down your tech options, request demos or trial periods before committing. This step is invaluable in ensuring the tools fit seamlessly into your workflows.
If possible, invite team members from various departments to test the tools — sales, marketing, finance, customer service, etc. They can identify usability issues or gaps in integration quicker than you might expect.
Tools like Slack, Trello, or HubSpot often offer free trials, which provide the perfect opportunity to assess integration capabilities before signing on the dotted line.
Step 6. Focus on Scalability
Your business is growing, and your tech stack should grow with you. When assessing integration, consider how well the tools will scale as your operations expand.
For example:
- Can the system handle a larger customer database?
- Will it allow for new integrations in the future?
- Does the pricing model align with your growth projections?
Scalability ensures you won’t need to start from scratch (and spend more) every time you hit a growth milestone. A forward-thinking tech strategy saves frustration — and dollars — in the long run.
Step 7. Leverage Integration for Data Insights
Once your tech stack is integrated, it’s time to unlock the ultimate benefit — business intelligence (BI).
Integrated systems improve data visibility, giving decision-makers a real-time bird’s-eye view of performance metrics, customer trends, and operational efficiencies. For example, combining CRM data with financial data reveals valuable insights into your most profitable customer segments.
Invest in business intelligence dashboards to unify data from all your tools and visualize it in actionable ways. With well-integrated tech, you’re no longer basing decisions on isolated data streams — you have a single, trusted source of insight.
Seamlessly integrated technology doesn’t just save time; it drives innovation, collaboration, and smart decision-making. By mapping your needs, leveraging ERP or stand-alone tools with open APIs, and focusing on scalability, you’re setting your business up for success. If you want to simplify your tech and supercharge your operations, start by evaluating your existing systems and browsing tech solutions with integration in mind. Ultimately, it’s time to make your tech stack work smarter — not harder!