Web3, NFTs and the metaverse: a sceptic's notes
2021 is the year of the NFT, and many businesses are wondering whether they need one. For almost every small business, the answer is no.
By Robert ScalesBlog · 2021
16 posts published in 2021.
Green Fins through a pandemic
No guests, no revenue, and the reef is still there. Maintaining environmental standards through the pandemic is a genuine test for small dive operators.
By Robert ScalesBuying local online: Le Panier Bleu and Quebec retailers
Quebec's buy-local push moved online during the pandemic. What local shops need so all that goodwill actually turns into orders.
By Robert ScalesCommunity development: supporting local outfitters
The local outfitter knows the lake better than any app. Many are facing a difficult fall, and a community can do more than it may think.
By Robert ScalesSatellite messengers: inReach and the end of being unreachable
The backcountry now has text messaging. It is a gain for safety, but it also changes what being off-grid means, so it is worth deciding how reachable you want to be.
By Robert ScalesPaper maps and compasses: navigation then and now
Thirty years ago, navigation relied on a paper map and a compass. Today, any phone shows your position. The map still has its place in the pack.
By Robert ScalesGoogle's free product listings for small retailers
Google now shows products from stores for free in the Shopping tab. How a small retailer gets in with Merchant Center, and the most common pitfalls.
By Robert ScalesBack to the canoe
The lakes are the one place that never closed. This summer therefore marks a return to the canoe, three decades after the first trip.
By Robert ScalesThe page experience update rolls out
Google is rolling out the page experience update this summer. The ranking effect should be limited, but the fixes are worthwhile for your visitors.
By Robert ScalesTeaching the ASP Lancement d'une entreprise
We have started teaching Quebec's 12-week business launch program. How it works, and why the coaching days matter as much as the class.
By Robert ScalesProduct photos on a budget for online stores
A phone, a window and a white sheet. How to get product photos that sell, and the image rules Google Shopping expects.
By Robert ScalesApple's App Tracking Transparency and ad targeting
iOS 14.5 puts one question on every iPhone: allow this app to track you? Most users are expected to decline. Small advertisers need to prepare.
By Robert ScalesClubhouse and the audio moment
Clubhouse invites are in high demand. Before you rebuild your marketing around live audio rooms, a few points deserve careful thought.
By Robert ScalesShipping, returns and delivery: the unglamorous side of e-commerce
Most small online stores lose money on shipping costs they never planned for. Rates, boxes, returns, and what to tell customers before they ask.
By Robert ScalesRemote work outside the city: internet in rural Canada
Many Montrealers are looking for a house in the country. Very few ask the real estate agent about upload speed.
By Robert ScalesSocial commerce: selling through Instagram and Facebook Shops
Facebook and Instagram want people to shop without leaving the app. A good opportunity for small brands, provided they remember they do not own the store.
By Robert ScalesYour business deserves to be found.
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