Economic Insider

Economic Insider Logo PNG
Economic Insider Logo PNG
Economic Insider Logo PNG

2025 Core Stack: Design, Flow, Function, and Value

Economic Insider Staff on October 21, 2025

By: Oyinloluwa Adedoyin

Design used to end at the user interface. Now, it begins with intent, moves through interface, and flows into code. It’s not about having a hundred tools. It’s about building a stack that solves problems faster and more intuitively. Product designers aren’t just shipping wireframes; we’re shaping emotion, interaction, and business logic.

As a motion and product designer creating for clients across Africa, the U.S., and Europe, I’ve spent the last five years refining a workflow that helps me design smarter, prototype faster, and deliver interactive, motion-rich experiences without waiting for a developer’s greenlight. With zero background in coding, I’ve been able to ship up to 3 plugins for Figma and Chrome. And I’ve been able to vibe code and launch multiple websites and web apps.

Here’s my 2025 core stack and how it empowers more designers to build autonomously, creatively, and collaboratively.

Core 2025 Stack for Product Designers

  1. Figma – The Heart of Design

Figma is still my visual HQ. From design systems to dashboards, I use Figma to sketch, test, collaborate, and build interactive prototypes. With features like variables, Dev Mode, and component libraries, it’s still the most intuitive way to go from raw UX thinking to polished visuals.

You’ll find many of my design resources and UI kits live on the Figma Community here.

  1. GPTs (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini etc.) – The Thinking Partner

AI is not replacing designers. It’s removing friction. My current favourite is Claude Sonnet 4.0 for development-related tasks and ChatGPT for researching or writing.

I use GPTs to:

  • Draft UX microcopy
  • Create journey maps and PRDs
  • Brainstorm naming ideas
  • Suggest motion logic or transitions
  • Even scaffold simple JS interactions for prototypes
  • It’s how I go from blank canvas to structured thinking.

  1. Base44 – Prototype the Vibe

Think of it as a smart architect for apps. This tool might be the only AI tool you will need in 2025 as a designer. Base44 helps me validate product tone and direction early. I use it to test ideas. Base44 is an AI-powered platform that lets you build fully functioning apps. Using both prompt and code, it enables anyone to turn their words into personal productivity apps. It’s built for actual deployment, not just demos.

  1. Lovable – Frontend Without Friction

Lovable bridges the infamous designer-dev gap. It respects Figma layouts and generates clean frontend code that reflects design intent or imported. Built Oyinloluwa Adedoyinon React, Tailwind & Vite, it has helped me speed up development uniquely while also allowing real-time testing.

  1. Notion – The Operating System

Every project I touch lives in Notion.

I use it for:

  • Managing animation timelines
  • Storing product strategy notes
  • Sharing design briefs and AI prompts
  • Documenting UI/UX decisions
  • It keeps my process as thoughtful as it is creative.

 

  1. LottieFiles – Animating at Scale

My motion design workflow centres on After Effects. However, LottieFiles is fast developing as a hub for creating, editing and shipping out web animated assets. I animate everything from onboarding flows to explainer loops, export in lightweight JSON, and deliver dev-ready animations. Over 3,000 designers and developers have downloaded my free UI animations on LottieFiles here.

  1. Locofy, Framer & Vercel – Building Without Bottlenecks

When I need to demo something fast:

  • Locofy converts my Figma components into React
  • Framer powers quick visual sites with motion
  • Vercel helps me share test links with clients, teams, or engineers in minutes

This trio supports a motion-first, prototype-rich product workflow — especially useful for lean, remote teams.

From Lagos to the Global Stage

I didn’t always have access to these tools. I started designing with PowerPoint, and before I discovered Photoshop at university. But through years of practice, working, and learning design, I’ve gone from local gigs to working with global clients and mentoring designers across Africa. My journey – “Switching Pixels: How Oyinloluwa Adedoyin Went from Photography to Design”

“The best product designers in 2025 aren’t just pixel pushers. They’re storytellers, systems thinkers, and translators. We don’t wait for permission to build & test ideas.”
 – Oyinloluwa Adedoyin
 Product & Motion Designer
Linkedin | Figma

How The Matt Brown Show Earned 162 Days of C-Suite Attention in 103 Countries

Economic Insider Staff on October 21, 2025

By: Chelsie Carvajal

Marketers have long measured success in impressions, clicks, and conversions. But in today’s digital economy, those metrics can be misleading. A campaign may generate traffic, but if the audience forgets the brand once the budget is switched off, the value disappears.

That is why more companies are rethinking their approach and investing in media assets that compound; content and conversations that continue to generate visibility, trust, and pipeline long after they are first created.

The Economics of Declining Ad Efficiency

The cost of acquiring a qualified lead through digital advertising continues to climb. LinkedIn campaigns targeting executive buyers can cost anywhere from $75,000 to $150,000 to generate the same volume of conversations that a single media-led campaign can achieve organically. Conversion rates from cold outreach remain stubbornly low, averaging between one and three percent.

The problem is not just cost. It is that advertising is inherently short-lived. Once the budget stops, the campaign ends. Companies are left with little more than a short-term spike in activity.

Trust as the Multiplier

By contrast, media-led trust accelerators work differently. Instead of interrupting audiences, they invite them in. By hosting executives, founders, or investors in authority-driven conversations, brands are able to associate themselves with credibility and influence.

These conversations, when packaged correctly, become more than content. They become currency. Referral-style introductions convert at rates between 50 and 70 percent, compared with the low single digits of cold outreach. The difference is trust.

The Matt Brown Show Example

How The Matt Brown Show Earned 162 Days of C-Suite Attention in 103 Countries

Photo Courtesy: Matt Brown

One proof point comes from The Matt Brown Show, a globally ranked business podcast that has hosted more than 1,000 interviews with leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors across 112 countries. Ranked in the top 2.5% of podcasts worldwide, the platform now functions as both a stage for thought leadership and a laboratory for media-driven growth strategies.

In one outreach campaign tied to the show’s Sponsored Series model, Brown invited targeted executives to appear as guests. The result: 190 interviews booked with CEOs from a single email; a pipeline that would have cost well into six figures if purchased through conventional ad channels.

Another campaign generated 3,896 hours of executive watch time — equivalent to 162 days of uninterrupted C-suite attention across 103 countries. These are not abstract engagement numbers. They are quantifiable proof of influence with decision-makers.

Reference: https://mattbrownshow.com/case-study-halo/

Why These Assets Compound

What makes this approach particularly powerful is its durability. An advertisement disappears when the spend ends. A conversation, by contrast, continues to generate value.

Each interview on The Matt Brown Show is repurposed into an ecosystem of media assets: short clips for LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube; articles for PR distribution; snippets for newsletters; and content for paid campaigns. One episode becomes 100+ assets that circulate across multiple channels for months.

This creates an evergreen growth engine. A conversation recorded once can continue attracting new viewers, readers, and leads for years. The return on investment compounds.

How The Matt Brown Show Earned 162 Days of C-Suite Attention in 103 Countries

Photo Courtesy: Matt Brown

The Broader Financial Case

For financially minded executives, the comparison is straightforward:

  • Advertising: High upfront spend, limited lifespan, diminishing returns.
  • Media Assets: Lower initial cost, long lifespan, compounding returns.

One-off campaigns may deliver short-term spikes, but evergreen assets build equity — a media library that fuels sales, recruiting, partnerships, and brand positioning indefinitely.

As Brown explains, “Attention is the scarcest commodity in business. If you can own it through trust-driven media, you not only reduce acquisition costs but also build an asset that appreciates over time.”

Looking Ahead

For companies evaluating their budgets, the question is no longer whether to invest in media but how to structure it for compounding value.

Sponsored conversations, digital TV shows, and event media partnerships are emerging as the preferred vehicles because they combine authority, trust, and scale. They offer measurable ROI today while building long-term brand equity for tomorrow.

As traditional ad channels lose efficiency, the businesses that succeed will be those that think like media companies; producing assets that live beyond the campaign cycle.

In financial terms, it is the difference between spending money and investing it. Advertising is an expense. Media assets are an appreciating asset.

 

Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational and promotional purposes only. The strategies and insights shared may be beneficial to businesses seeking to enhance their marketing approach, but individual results may vary. Companies are encouraged to consult with marketing professionals to evaluate the most effective strategies for their unique needs.

Business Plan Development: Creating a Comprehensive Roadmap

Economic Insider Staff 2 on October 21, 2025

Defining the Purpose of a Business Plan

A business plan serves as a structured document that outlines the goals of a company and the strategies to achieve them. It provides clarity for owners, employees, and potential investors by setting expectations and identifying priorities. According to Invensis, a strong business plan functions as both a roadmap and a communication tool, ensuring that all stakeholders understand the direction of the business.

The purpose of a business plan extends beyond securing funding. While investors and lenders often require one, the process of writing a plan helps business leaders clarify their vision and anticipate challenges. By documenting objectives, companies can measure progress and adjust strategies when needed. This makes the plan a living document rather than a one-time exercise.

For small businesses and startups, a business plan can also provide reassurance during uncertain times. It offers a framework for decision-making, helping leaders stay focused on long-term goals while managing day-to-day operations. This balance between strategy and execution is essential for stability and growth.

Key Components of a Comprehensive Plan

A comprehensive business plan typically includes several core sections. These begin with an executive summary, which provides a concise overview of the company’s mission, goals, and financial outlook. This section is often the first part that investors read, making clarity and precision important.

Market analysis is another critical component. By researching competitors, customer needs, and industry trends, businesses can identify opportunities and risks. According to RAD Strategic Partners, this analysis helps companies position themselves effectively and avoid costly missteps.

Financial projections form the backbone of the plan. These include revenue forecasts, expense estimates, and cash flow statements. Accurate projections demonstrate that the business has considered both growth potential and financial risks. They also provide benchmarks for evaluating performance over time.

The Role of Strategy and Execution

While financials and market research are important, strategy is what connects goals to action. A business plan should outline specific steps for achieving objectives, including marketing strategies, operational processes, and staffing needs. This ensures that the plan is actionable rather than theoretical.

Execution requires accountability. Assigning responsibilities and setting timelines helps ensure that strategies are implemented effectively. Regular reviews allow businesses to track progress and make adjustments when circumstances change. This adaptability is especially important in competitive industries where conditions can shift quickly.

According to Inkbot Design, aligning sales and marketing strategies within the business plan is essential for growth. By coordinating these functions, companies can maximize resources and create a consistent message for customers.

Anticipating Challenges and Risks

Every business faces risks, from economic downturns to supply chain disruptions. A comprehensive plan acknowledges these risks and outlines strategies for managing them. This may include diversifying suppliers, maintaining cash reserves, or developing contingency plans for unexpected events.

Identifying risks does not mean predicting every possible challenge. Instead, it demonstrates that the business is prepared to respond thoughtfully when difficulties arise. This preparation can reassure investors and employees that the company is resilient.

Risk management also includes compliance with regulations and industry standards. By addressing legal and ethical considerations in the business plan, companies can avoid penalties and protect their reputation. This proactive approach supports long-term sustainability.

The Value of Regular Updates

A business plan is most effective when treated as a dynamic document. Markets, technologies, and customer expectations change, and plans must adapt accordingly. Regular updates ensure that strategies remain relevant and aligned with current conditions.

Updating the plan also provides an opportunity to celebrate progress. Reviewing achievements can motivate teams and highlight areas where strategies are working. At the same time, updates reveal gaps that may require new approaches or additional resources.

For growing businesses, updated plans are essential when seeking new funding or entering new markets. Investors want to see that the company is responsive to change and capable of adjusting its strategies. This flexibility can strengthen credibility and attract long-term support.

Succession Planning: Ensuring Continuity in Family Businesses

Economic Insider Staff 2 on October 21, 2025

Why Succession Planning Matters

Family businesses play a central role in economies worldwide, yet many face uncertainty when it comes to leadership transitions. Studies show that a large percentage of family-owned companies do not survive beyond the second generation, often due to a lack of structured planning. According to Forbes, nearly half of business owners over the age of 55 have no clear succession plan in place. This absence of preparation can lead to disputes, financial instability, or even closure when founders retire or pass away.

Succession planning is the process of identifying and preparing future leaders to take over ownership and management responsibilities. It involves more than naming a successor; it requires developing skills, aligning family expectations, and ensuring that the business can continue to operate smoothly during transitions. Without such planning, even profitable companies may struggle to maintain stability.

The importance of succession planning extends beyond the business itself. Employees, customers, and suppliers all rely on continuity. A well-prepared transition reassures stakeholders that the company will remain reliable, even as leadership changes. This stability can preserve trust and protect the reputation that families have built over generations.

Common Challenges in Family Business Transitions

One of the most significant challenges in family business succession is balancing personal relationships with professional responsibilities. Family dynamics can complicate decision-making, especially when multiple relatives are interested in leadership roles. According to InvestmentNews, many families are now formalizing governance structures to reduce conflict and clarify expectations. These structures may include advisory boards, shareholder agreements, or defined voting rights.

Another challenge is preparing the next generation for leadership. While some successors may be eager to take over, others may lack the necessary experience or interest. Training and mentorship are essential to ensure that future leaders are ready to manage both the operational and strategic aspects of the business. Without adequate preparation, successors may struggle to maintain profitability or adapt to changing markets.

Financial considerations also play a role. Transferring ownership can involve complex tax implications, valuation disputes, and liquidity concerns. Families must decide whether to keep ownership entirely within the family, bring in outside investors, or consider partial sales. Each option carries advantages and risks, making early planning critical to avoid rushed decisions.

Steps Toward Effective Succession Planning

Effective succession planning begins with open communication. Families that discuss their goals and expectations early are better positioned to avoid misunderstandings later. These conversations should include not only potential successors but also non-family executives and advisors who can provide objective perspectives.

The next step is identifying and developing talent. Potential successors should be given opportunities to gain experience in different areas of the business, from operations to finance. This exposure helps them build the skills needed to lead effectively. According to TruNorth Partners, structured training programs and mentorship can significantly improve the chances of a smooth transition.

Finally, families should document their plans. A written succession plan provides clarity and reduces uncertainty. It should outline the timeline for transition, the roles of family members, and the mechanisms for resolving disputes. Regular reviews ensure that the plan remains relevant as circumstances change.

The Role of External Advisors

While family members play the central role in succession, external advisors can provide valuable guidance. Accountants, attorneys, and consultants help navigate tax laws, legal requirements, and governance structures. Their expertise ensures that transitions comply with regulations and minimize financial risks.

Advisors can also act as neutral facilitators in family discussions. Sensitive topics, such as ownership shares or leadership roles, may be easier to address with an impartial third party present. This support helps families maintain relationships while making difficult decisions.

In some cases, families may choose to bring in professional managers to run the business while retaining ownership. This approach allows the company to benefit from experienced leadership while giving younger family members time to prepare for future roles. It also provides flexibility if no immediate successor is ready to take over.

Building a Legacy Through Planning

Succession planning is not only about preserving a business but also about protecting a family’s legacy. A well-prepared transition ensures that the values, traditions, and reputation built over decades continue into the future. It also provides financial security for family members and stability for employees who depend on the company.

By addressing challenges early and creating a structured plan, families can reduce uncertainty and strengthen their businesses for the long term. The process may be complex, but the benefits extend far beyond the immediate transition. It provides continuity, preserves relationships, and ensures that the business remains a source of pride for generations to come.

How Covington GA’s Housing Boom Is Raising the Roof—Literally: Why Local Homeowners Are Turning to Sustainable Roofing Contractors

Economic Insider Staff on October 21, 2025

By: Susan Rogers 

Over the past five years, Covington, Georgia—once a quiet Southern town known for its movie sets and small-town charm—has become one of the region’s fastest-growing housing markets. Just 35 miles east of Atlanta, its population has surged past 14,000, driven by affordable land, industrial growth, and the post-pandemic migration of professionals seeking more space.

That growth is reshaping more than neighborhoods—it’s changing rooftops. And local roofing contractors in Covington GA are finding themselves at the crossroads of two powerful forces: an overheated construction economy and an increasingly eco-conscious homeowner base.

A Roofline View of the Local Economy

When interest rates began to rise, national headlines predicted a slowdown in new construction. But Covington defied expectations. Residential building permits in Newton County increased year-over-year, fueled by relocations from metro Atlanta and beyond.

“People aren’t just buying homes here—they’re building them to last,” says Chris Braswell, founder of Braswell Construction Group, a Georgia-based roofing and restoration company that has seen steady growth across Covington, Greensboro, and the Lake Oconee region. “Homeowners are treating their roofs like an investment portfolio. They want efficiency, longevity, and aesthetics that add resale value.”

In an era where the cost of everything from lumber to labor has inflated, the roof has quietly become a reflection of the broader economy: a high-cost necessity that’s now also a statement of sustainability.

Sustainable Roofing: From Trend to Investment

Sustainable construction isn’t new, but its economics have changed. Materials that were once considered luxury—metal roofing, synthetic slate, and especially solar roofs—are now viewed through a long-term ROI lens.

“With Georgia’s heat index and rising energy bills, we’re seeing homeowners pivot toward roofing that works harder,” says a Covington-based designer who partners with Braswell Construction Group on new-build projects.

Braswell’s partnership with Tesla Solar Roof has positioned it as a key player in the movement toward integrated energy systems. These aren’t the bulky panels of the past—they’re sleek, architectural systems that generate power while maintaining curb appeal.

“Every month, more Covington homeowners are asking about solar,” adds Braswell. “It’s not just about being green—it’s about being smart. When your roof can offset your energy costs, that’s a hedge against inflation.”

The Ripple Effect on Home Values

The economic impact of sustainable roofing extends well beyond energy bills.
According to regional real estate analysts, Covington’s blend of historic and new homes has created a unique value dynamic: homes with upgraded or energy-efficient roofs are selling faster and potentially commanding higher offers than comparable properties.

“Buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with low maintenance and high efficiency,” says a local agent specializing in Newton County’s emerging subdivisions. “It’s the difference between a house that feels dated and one that feels future-ready.”

For roofing contractors in Covington GA, this means the line between craftsmanship and value creation has blurred. Contractors are now part of the value-creation chain—consultants in energy, aesthetics, and even market positioning.

Storms, Resilience, and the Cost of Climate

The economic case for sustainable roofing is also shaped by something less predictable: Georgia’s climate. Increasing storm frequency has elevated insurance premiums across the state. For Covington homeowners, investing in impact-resistant roofing can potentially mean lower long-term costs and faster claim approvals.

Braswell Construction Group has capitalized on this trend with composite roofing systems designed to resist hail, wind, and moisture infiltration—issues that can quickly erode both a roof and a homeowner’s equity.

“Storms used to mean patchwork repairs,” Braswell explains. “Now, they’re catalysts for full-scale upgrades. Homeowners are realizing that resilience and return go hand in hand.”

Looking Ahead: The Rooftop Economy

Covington’s construction boom shows no signs of slowing. And as interest in sustainability deepens, roofing is evolving from a trade into a tech-driven sector of the new Georgia economy.

With companies like Braswell Construction Group leading the charge—blending craftsmanship, technology, and energy innovation—Covington is fast becoming a model for how small-city growth can meet modern expectations.

In a market defined by inflation, supply chain strain, and environmental change, one thing is clear: the future of Covington’s housing market is looking up—and it’s covered in smarter, stronger, more sustainable roofs.

Explore

Legal