Signals
Short, fast takes on what's happening right now. Some signals are later developed into full posts on the Observatory.
AI Agents and Copilots Explained: What's the Difference?
Searches for 'AI agent' and 'AI copilot' are both rising fast. Here's the difference, and why it matters.
AI for Business: Where to Start (Without the Hype)
'AI for business' and 'AI in business' searches are climbing fast. Here's a practical starting point, without the hype.
What Is Data Science? A Plain-English Explainer
'Data science projects' searches are up 750% this year. Here's what data science actually means, in plain terms.
IT Support for SMEs: What You Actually Need (and When)
Searches for 'IT support for SME' and 'SME IT support' are both up over 350% this year. Here's how to think about it.
What Is Business Innovation? It's Not Just New Products
'What is innovation' searches are up 60% this year. Here's why innovation is broader — and more accessible — than mos...
What Is Cloud Computing? A Quick Explainer for Businesses
'What is cloud computing' searches are up 40% this year, and cloud computing services up 350%. Here's a plain-English...
What Is Generative AI? How It's Different from 'Normal' AI
'Generative AI' searches are climbing fast. Here's how it differs from other AI, in plain terms.
What Is Digital Transformation? A Plain-English Guide
'Digital transformation strategies' searches are up over 1,000% this year. Here's what it actually means in practice.
What Is Cybersecurity? A Quick Guide for Small Businesses
Searches for cybersecurity tips are up over 3,000% this year. Here's a quick explainer and where to start.
What Is SaaS? A Quick Explainer for Business Owners
'What is SaaS' searches are up 60% this year. Here's a quick answer, plus what to check before signing up.
AI Still Needs Humans: Why the Best Results Come from Both
AI is powerful, but unsupervised AI output is a liability. Here's where humans still matter most.
Can AI Solve My Business Problem? How to Tell
Searches for 'use AI' are up 60% this year. Before you adopt a new tool, ask these three questions first.
What Is AI? A Quick Explainer for Business Owners
Searches for 'what is AI' are up sharply this year. Here's a quick, jargon-free answer.
Example Signal: A Quick Take on a Recent Story
A short, fast-turnaround take on a recent story.