Tim PatulakWe connected an Ishida scale to Square POS in under an hour using Claude's Cowork tool — handling item categorization, tax logic, PLU/GTIN mapping, and UPC/EAN barcode structure before a single import.
Tim PatulakThis post takes a hard look at chemical management in retail operations — not from a janitorial angle, but from a leadership and risk-control perspective. “Smells Like Clean Spirit — Until the Ceiling Tiles Melt” breaks down the unseen hazards hiding in everyday store maintenance, from industrial cleaners to mismanaged MSDS compliance. It’s a practical, eye-opening piece for executives and operators who think “clean” just means “safe.”
Tim PatulakA guide for new brick-and-mortar owners on building a complete business infrastructure from scratch. Covers every layer—from POS and ERP setup to API integrations, data flow mapping, and automation. Includes step-by-step guidance on connecting accounting, CRM, and inventory systems, plus modern options for AI-driven forecasting, customer communication, and daily reporting.
Tim PatulakA look at how Spectrum Business quietly discontinued its auto attendant feature for landline users—and what small businesses can do instead. From porting numbers into CRMs to using AI-powered call routing and free or low-cost VoIP options, this post explores smarter, affordable ways to automate customer calls without relying on outdated phone systems.