Tackling marketing without a solid plan is like putting together a puzzle without all the pieces together – I know that firsthand.
Before I leveraged a strategic marketing framework, my efforts often felt scattered and without real direction. But when I started implementing these frameworks, something started to click.
Suddenly my campaigns were more targeted, more organized and much more effective. I noticed that the sky looked bluer and the flowers smelled sweeter. Well, maybe that last part isn’t true, but everything seemed to go a lot smoother.
A good marketing framework doesn’t just give you clarity: it turns your entire strategy into a well-functioning machine and helps you execute campaigns with confidence and achieve real, measurable results.
In this post, I’ll walk you through nine marketing frameworks that will help you bring order to your marketing strategy and deliver consistent results.
Table of contents
What is a Marketing Strategy Framework?
A marketing strategy framework details how you will implement your marketing plan and deliver marketing content to your target audiences in a way that helps you achieve your marketing goals. This is often a template or a visual representation of what you want to achieve.
Think of it this way: You wouldn’t dream of approaching your marketing with a “throw spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks” attitude because that would be a disaster for your business.
Instead, you’ll likely spend days, weeks, and even months identifying your target audience, where they spend time, finding the perfect way to reach them, and communicating the benefits of your product or service in a marketing plan.
Your marketing strategy framework goes a step further and, as mentioned above, ensures that your marketing plan is successful as you share content with your audiences at the right time in the most relevant channels that are more likely to drive results.
The benefits of a marketing framework
A marketing strategy framework not only ensures that you can concentrate on the task at hand. As your company grows and your team grows with it, you need to find a way to communicate with every member of the marketing department, regardless of where they work or what tasks they are responsible for.
Creating a marketing framework is the best way to ensure everyone knows what they need to do and how they need to do it. Other benefits of using a marketing framework include:
- Creates a home for templates, guides, tools, and resources that all marketers in your company need to access.
- Establishes and communicates approved language to the organization.
- Improving marketing increases the company’s growth and profits.
- Allows the team to compare different strategies and determine the best route.
- Communicates who is responsible for what and facilitates the transfer of people from one role to another.
- Saves time by limiting “repetitions” – areas that are often prone to errors and require editing.
Additionally, your framework will help you predict your customers’ behavior and expected revenue. This helps your team work more efficiently and produce more effectively.
The best marketing frameworks
Marketing has probably been around since prehistoric times, when enterprising cavemen designed state-of-the-art spears and tried to sell them to their less “handy” counterparts.
Okay, that may not be true, but marketing has long been a necessary aspect of business, and over time, savvy marketers have developed models and frameworks to make their (and your) jobs easier. Let’s take a look at some traditional models as well as some newer frameworks.
Traditional marketing models
1. 7Ps Marketing Mix
The 7Ps Marketing Mix is the ultimate checklist for bringing your product or service to the world.
It began in the 1960s with just four Ps – product, price, place and promotion – but as companies and markets became more complex, it expanded to include people, processes and physical evidence.
Think of it as covering all the bases to ensure you don’t miss anything important when planning your marketing strategy.
When should you use it?
I’ve found the 7Ps framework to be really useful when you’re in the planning stages of something new or need to take a fresh look at what you already offer. This way, you can make sure you’re thinking about everything from how much you price to how you deliver your product to customers.
How to use it
- Product: What exactly are you selling? Make sure you are clear about the features and benefits and what sets it apart from the competition.
- Price: Find out how much you will charge. Consider production costs, your competitors’ prices, and the value your customers see in your product.
- Location: Where are you going to sell it? Whether in a physical store, online, or both, the key is to make sure your target audience can easily get their hands on it.
- Financial support: How do you plan to spread the word? This includes everything from ads to social media to email campaigns – anything that helps you connect with your audience.
- People: Who is involved in the delivery of your product? From your sales team to customer support, the right people on site can make a difference in how your customers experience your brand.
- Procedure: What is the process for getting your product to your customers? It’s important to plan this to ensure everything runs smoothly and ensure your customers are happy.
- Physical Evidence: What concrete evidence do you have that your company is legitimate? This can be anything from your packaging to online reviews – anything that gives your customers trust in your brand.
Pro tip: I learned that you don’t do the 7Ps framework once and forget about it. Markets change, customer needs evolve, and you need to regularly rethink your marketing mix to stay ahead.
Example: Let’s say my company launches a new software tool. As for “advertising,” I will focus on digital marketing channels like social media ads and email campaigns because I know that’s where my tech-savvy audience resides.
When it comes to “process,” I will streamline the customer journey from discovery to purchase by ensuring our website is optimized for conversions, with clear CTAs, a quick checkout process, and automated follow-up emails -Emails to nurture leads.
2. STP marketing model
STP is a top-down approach that helps you divide your audience into smaller segments, identify who is most likely to be interested in your product, and then position your brand to speak directly to that audience. In my experience, it’s like creating a personalized message for each group rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
When should you use it?
I have found the STP model to be extremely useful if you want to refine your marketing efforts, especially if you have a diverse audience.
Whether you’re launching a new product or looking to make your existing campaigns more effective, this model will help you focus on the most receptive segments and tailor your messaging accordingly.
How to use IT
- Segmentation: Start by dividing your overall market into smaller segments based on various criteria such as demographics, behavior, or needs. The goal is to identify different groups within your broader audience.
- Orientation: Once you have your segments, it’s time to decide which ones are worth focusing on. Select the groups that are most likely to convert or bring the most value.
- Positioning: Finally, position your product so that it resonates with your chosen segments. Craft a message that highlights how your product meets their needs and sets you apart from others.
Pro tip: In my experience, you shouldn’t be afraid to rethink your segments and goals as your business grows. Your audience’s needs can change over time, and staying flexible with your STP strategy can help you keep your messages relevant and effective.
Example: Let’s say I launch a new line of eco-friendly products. For “Segmentation,” I will break down our audience by environmental awareness and lifestyle choices. Then in the “targeting” phase I could focus on young professionals who are enthusiastic about sustainability.
Finally, “positioning” allows me to highlight the environmental benefits and unique features of our products and position them as the perfect choice for people who want to make a difference without sacrificing quality.
3. Porter’s Five Forces
Porter’s Five Forces is one of those frameworks that I turn to when I want to better understand the big picture.
While most marketing concepts focus on the product and target audience, this one looks outward at the external influences that can impact profitability.
Developed by Michael PorterProfessor at Harvard Business School and competitive strategy expert, this framework helps you evaluate five key forces that influence the profitability and competition of any industry:
- Threat from new market entrants.
- Bargaining power of suppliers.
- Bargaining power of buyers.
- Threatening to provide substitute products or services.
- Intensity of competitive rivalry.
Porter’s extensive work in competitive strategy has made this model a cornerstone of business strategy and helped companies understand the complexities of their competitive environment.
When should you use it?
I find this framework particularly useful in strategic planning, whether entering a new market or launching a new product.
Even if you’re not at an early stage, this is a great way to re-evaluate your position and figure out where you can gain a competitive advantage. It is also helpful for established companies to understand how industry dynamics are changing.
How to use it
To apply Porter’s five forces, first analyze each of the five forces in the context of your industry.
- Danger of new entry: Consider your industry and assess how difficult it is for competitors to enter the market. Are there significant barriers, such as high capital costs or strict regulations? Or is it relatively easy for new companies to get started? If you’re in a mature industry you might be less worried about new competitors, but in emerging, dynamic markets this can be a big problem.
- Bargaining power of suppliers: Next, evaluate the influence of utilities on your pricing. When there are only a few providers, they have more power, which can affect margins. For example, if I launch a new product based on unique materials, I will feel cost pressure. But when there are many suppliers, purchasing and negotiating is easier.
- Bargaining power of buyers: Look at how much power buyers have. If there are only a few large buyers, they can negotiate lower prices or special conditions. But when there are many buyers, it is easier to control the conditions. I’ve found this to be particularly relevant in industries with large B2B contracts, where a single buyer can significantly impact a company’s revenue.
- Threat of substitution: Substitutes are always lurking, especially in technology-driven industries. I remain on the lookout for alternative products or services that could easily replace ours. For example, if you’re launching a SaaS tool, be wary of free or cheaper DIY solutions that could scare customers away from your product.
- Competition: Finally, evaluate the competition. High rivalry often means price wars, higher marketing expenses and the need for aggressive differentiation. This force is particularly strong in markets with little differentiation and many competitors – think airlines or fast food. Focus on building brand loyalty and offering something unique that stands out.
Pro tip: When conducting an analysis of Porter’s five forces, consider future trends and the possible evolution of these forces. This can help you stay ahead and proactively adjust your strategy. Download a free one Porter’s “Five Forces” template to try it out yourself.
Modern marketing models
Now let’s take a look at some of the newer models hitting the marketing scene. While they may not have been around as long as more traditional models, they take into account the current marketing climate and often focus on startups.
4. Pirate metrics or “AARRR!”
Don’t worry – you don’t have to wear an eye patch or adopt a parrot to use these. Pirate Metrics, or AARRR, is a framework developed by startup guru Dave McClure. It’s about tracking the customer journey, from discovering your brand to the point where they’re happy enough to tell everyone about you.
The name comes from the five phases it focuses on: acquisition, activation, retention, revenue and referral. In my experience, this model is great for startups and any company that wants to understand how to optimize every step of the customer journey.
When to use it
I’ve found Pirate Metrics to be incredibly useful if you want to get a clear picture of where your customers are coming from, how they interact with your product, and what keeps them engaged.
If you’re focused on growth and looking for ways to improve your customer lifecycle, this framework is definitely worth a look.
How to use it
- Acquisition: This is about finding out where your customers come from. Do they discover you through Instagram ads, organic search, or perhaps word of mouth? Knowing this will help you pay more attention to what works.
- Activation: What are the first actions they take once they find you? Maybe they sign up for your newsletter, create an account, or download a free guide. The goal here is to track these first steps and make sure they go as smoothly as possible.
- Retention: Okay, so they interacted with you once – are they coming back now? Customer retention is crucial because it is always easier (and cheaper) to retain a customer than to acquire a new one. Look at things like repeat visits, product usage, or subscription renewals to see how well you’re doing here.|
- Revenue: This is where money comes into play. How do you generate revenue from your customers? Whether it’s one-time purchases, subscriptions, or upsells, revenue tracking helps you understand the financial health of your customer base.
- Reference: Finally, happy customers tend to spread the word. Do your customers tell their friends, leave reviews, or share your product on social media? Referrals are worth their weight in gold because they reduce your customer acquisition costs and generate new business.
Pro tip: In my experience, Pirate Metrics works best when you track each stage regularly and look for patterns. If you notice a drop in an area, that’s your signal to look around to see what’s going on.
For example, if you’re having trouble with customer retention, maybe it’s time to improve your onboarding process or add more value to keep customers coming back.
Example: Let’s say I use this Pirate metrics Framework for launching a new app. For “acquisition,” I would focus on the most effective channels like social media ads and double down on those. In the activation phase, I would optimize the signup process to increase conversions.
In terms of “customer retention,” I would regularly engage users with tips or updates to keep them coming back. To increase “sales,” I would optimize upsell offers at key points in the user journey. Finally, I would add a share button for “Recommendations” to encourage word of mouth.
5. Lean Analytics phases
The Lean Analytics Stages framework is a must-have for anyone involved in a startup or looking to scale a new product.
Developed by Alistair Croll and Ben Yoskovitz, two respected figures in the startup and tech community, this framework helps startups focus on the right metrics at the right time and move from an idea to a scalable business.
When should you use it?
I have found the Lean Analytics Stages framework to be particularly useful for early-stage startups or launching a new product. It helps you understand what to measure and when, so you can make informed decisions that drive growth.
How to use it
- Empathy: It all starts with getting to know your customers. You spend time listening to their challenges, getting feedback, and truly understanding the problem you’re trying to solve. At this stage, empathy is key and the goal is to create a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that addresses a real need.
- Stickiness: Once you have your MVP, the focus shifts to engagement and retention. Are people coming back? Do they find value in what you offer? At this stage, it is crucial to optimize your product to maintain user retention and reduce churn.
- Virality: Now that you have a core group of users, it’s time to think about growth. Before you spend big on ads, you want to make sure your existing customers are spreading the word. Organic growth through referrals is a strong indicator that you are on the right path.
- Revenue: In this phase, the main thing is to make money. You need to figure out how to convert your engaged users into paying customers. Whether through subscriptions, one-time purchases or upsells, the focus is on generating sustainable revenue.
- Scale: Once you’ve established your revenue model, it’s time to scale it. This means expanding your reach, opening up new markets or launching new products. The key here is to build on the data and insights you’ve gathered in the earlier phases to drive growth.
Pro tip: In my experience, it is important not to rush through these phases. Each step builds on the last, and if you skip a step, you may miss important insights that can make or break your business. Take the time to dig into the data and truly understand what is driving your growth.
Example: Let’s say I’m scaling a new SaaS product Lean Analytics Stages Frame. In the “empathy” phase, I would conduct interviews with potential users to identify their biggest challenges, which would help shape the MVP.
Then I would test “stickiness” by tracking how well users interact with and return to the product. As we move toward “virality,” I would encourage referrals to grow our customer base organically. Once “revenue” is stable, I would focus on “scaling” by expanding into new markets and adding more features.
6. The Hook Model
No, it has nothing to do with the pirate metrics mentioned earlier, but it complements the stickiness and virality discussed in Lean Analytics.
The Hook model focuses on creating products that people can’t resist. It was developed by Nir Eyal, the author of Hooked: How to Create Habit-Forming Productsand it focuses on creating habits that retain users long-term.
In my experience, this model is a game-changer for anyone who wants to create products that users can’t live without. It’s about understanding what drives user behavior and using that knowledge to create a cycle of engagement.
When should you use it?
I’ve found the hook model to be particularly useful when you’re trying to build products or services that require ongoing user engagement. Whether you’re building an app, a website, or even a subscription service, this framework will help you think about how to make your product an integral part of your users’ lives.
How to use it
- Trigger: The user journey begins here. Triggers can be external, such as a push notification, or internal, such as a feeling of boredom or stress. The key is to figure out what will drive users to engage with your product.
- Action: Once triggered, the user must perform an action. This should be something simple and easy, like clicking a button or scrolling through a feed. The easier it is, the more likely users are to do it.
- Variable reward: This is where the magic happens. The reward must be satisfying, but the key is that it be variable. This little bit of unpredictability keeps users coming back, excited to see what they’ll get next.
- Investment: After all, users have to invest something in the product, be it time, effort or data. The more they invest, the more likely they are to come back because they have put something of themselves into the product.
Pro tip: I learned that the best hooks are the ones that feel natural to the user. It shouldn’t feel like you’re manipulating them; It should feel like you are truly solving a problem or adding value to the person’s life. If you find the right balance, users will not only engage with your product, but become loyal advocates.
Example: Let’s say I apply the Hook model to a fitness app. The “trigger” would be a daily reminder to log workouts to help users stay consistent. For the “action” I would make it as simple as possible, for example entering workout details with just a few taps.
The “variable reward” could consist of random badges or milestones to keep users curious about what they will unlock next. Finally, “investment” would come from users tracking their progress over time, thereby becoming more engaged when they see their improvements.
7. The ICE score
The ICE Score is a simple yet powerful framework for prioritizing ideas. Developed by Sean Ellis, often referred to as the father of growth marketing, this framework helps you quickly evaluate potential growth initiatives.
ICE – which stands for Impact, Confidence and Ease – is an easy way to decide which ideas are worth pursuing based on these three factors. In my experience, the ICE Score is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple projects and need to make smart, quick decisions.
When should you use it?
I’ve found the ICE Score to be incredibly useful when you have a list of potential projects or strategies and need to prioritize them.
Whether you’re working on marketing campaigns, product features, or even internal processes, this framework will help you stand out from the crowd and focus on what’s most likely to make a difference.
How to use it
- Effects: Start by asking yourself, “What is the potential impact if this idea works?” You want to focus on ideas that could significantly improve your business or project goals. The greater the potential impact, the higher the score.
- Trust: Next, think about how confident you are that this idea will be successful. This is about gut feeling paired with data. If you’ve already seen similar strategies work or have solid research to back it up, give it a higher score.
- Ease: Finally, think about how easy it is to implement. These include factors such as time, costs and resources. The easier something is to perform, the higher the score should be.
After rating each idea on a scale (usually from 1 to 10) for impact, confidence, and ease, add up the scores. You should give priority to the ideas with the highest overall score.
Pro tip: One thing I learned is that the ICE score is just a starting point. It gives you a quick way to prioritize, but don’t be afraid to adjust your approach as new information comes in or if something doesn’t feel right. Flexibility is key to making the most of this framework.
Example: Let’s say I use the ICE score to decide which marketing channels to prioritize for a product launch. For “impact,” I would rate social media ads highest because they can reach a large audience quickly.
For “Confidence,” content marketing could do well as we have had success with our content team in the past.
For “ease,” influencer partnerships would rank highest if we had existing relationships. After adding up the results, I would focus on the strategies that provide the best return on investment.
8. STEPS
STEPPS is a framework designed to help you create content that spreads naturally from person to person. Developed by Jonah Berger, a marketing professor and author of Contagious: Why Things PrevailThis model identifies six key factors that cause content to go viral.
STEPPS stands for Social Currency, Triggers, Emotion, Public, Practical Value and Stories. In my experience, this framework provides a clear roadmap for creating content that grabs attention and encourages people to share it.
When to use it
I’ve found STEPPS to be particularly effective when you want to create content that generates excitement and broad discussion. Whether it’s a blog post, video, or social media campaign, this framework will help ensure your content has the right elements to spark conversation and sharing.
How to use it
- Social currency: People like to share things that improve their image or make them feel like an insider. Think about how your content can give your audience something to be proud of and make them look good in the process.
- Trigger: Identify what gets people thinking and discussing your content. Triggers are everyday cues that can remind people of your message and encourage them to share it. The key is to connect your content to something that people encounter frequently.
- Emotion: Content that evokes strong emotions – be it happiness, surprise, anger or fear – is more likely to be shared. The stronger the emotional response, the more shareable your content is.
- Public: Make sure your content is highly visible and easy to share. The more people see others engaging with your product or message, the more likely they are to join in. Visibility encourages sharing.
- Practical value: People have a natural tendency to share helpful information. If your content offers valuable tips, advice, or solutions, it is more likely to be shared with others who may find it helpful.
- Stories: We are naturally drawn to stories and they make your content more engaging and memorable. If you can weave your message into a compelling narrative, it will resonate more strongly with your audience and encourage sharing.
Pro tip: In my experience, the true strength of STEPPS lies in the combination of these elements. For example, a story that evokes strong emotions and provides a practical benefit is much more likely to go viral than content that only addresses one or two of these points.
Example: Let’s say I’m using the STEPPS framework for a product launch campaign. For Social Currency, I would create an exclusive early access program to make participants feel like VIPs. I would incorporate “triggers” by linking the product to a popular industry trend.
To appeal to “emotions,” I would tell a compelling story about how the product solves a real-world problem. For “public” visibility, I would encourage users to share their experiences on social channels with a branded hashtag.
Add ““Practical value” could be offering tips and hacks around the product, and finally I would put everything together in a strong “story” to encourage buzz and sharing.
9. You ask, you answer
You ask, you answer is a straightforward but powerful approach to content marketing that is all about transparency and trust.
This framework was developed by Marcus Sheridan after he saved his pool business from failure during the Great Recession by simply answering his customers’ most pressing questions online.
The idea is to answer the questions your customers are already asking – no matter how difficult or uncomfortable those questions may be – and to do so with complete honesty. In my experience, this approach builds trust and positions you as a go-to person in your industry.
When should you use it?
I’ve found They Ask, You Answer to be particularly effective when you want to build a strong connection with your audience and position yourself as a trustworthy authority.
If you want to create content that will resonate with potential customers and directly address their concerns, this framework is a fantastic guide.
At the heart of They Ask, You Answer are what Sheridan calls “The Big 5”: five topics that every company must cover thoroughly and honestly on their website.
- Price. Explain the cost of everything you sell, including the factors that cause that number to rise and fall.
- “Best of” lists. Give your buyers lists of the top options they should consider when making a purchase.
- Reviews. Provide expert reviews on everything related to what you’re selling – even if you’re not selling it yourself.
- problems. Be open about the disadvantages of your products or services. Explain who is suitable to buy from you (and who is not).
- Comparisons. Offer side-by-side comparisons to help buyers make an informed decision.”
Together, these topics form the foundation of a content marketing framework that can build a strong connection with your audience.
How to use it
- Identify common questions: First, collect the most frequently asked questions from your customers. This could be pricing, product comparisons, potential problems, or even questions about your competitors. The better you understand what your customers want to know, the better you can serve them.
- Answer transparently: Answer the most important questions honestly and in detail. Don’t avoid discussing complex topics like price or possible disadvantages. Transparency is key to building trust.
- Create content around these questions: Use the questions as a basis for your content strategy. Whether it’s blog posts, videos, FAQs, or even product pages, make sure you answer these questions in a way that’s easy for your audience to find and understand.
- Promote the content: Make sure the content is easily accessible to your audience. Share it on your social media channels, include it in your newsletters and make it visible on your website. The goal is to ensure that customers looking for answers find your content first.
Pro tip: In my experience, the most successful “They Ask, You Answer” strategies are those that truly emphasize honesty – even when it’s uncomfortable. Being open about your customers’ concerns builds trust and helps you stand out in a crowded market.
Example: Let’s say I use the “you ask, you answer” strategic marketing framework when my sales team tells me that prospects are hesitant about pricing. Instead of skirting around the issue, I would create a detailed blog post breaking down the pricing structure, explaining why it’s set up that way, and comparing it to alternatives.
This transparency demystifies costs and leads to more informed and safer purchasing decisions.
Choosing the best marketing framework for your business
With so many marketing frameworks to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the one that best suits your business. It is important to remember that not all frameworks are created equal and what works for one organization may not be optimal for another.
To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key factors that will help you choose the most effective framework for your specific needs.
1. What are the company’s top priorities?
Start by clearly defining your company’s key priorities. Are you focused on growth, improving customer loyalty, entering new markets or increasing brand awareness?
Understanding your top priorities will help you choose a framework that meets your strategic goals. For example, if your priority is to create a highly engaging product that users keep coming back to, the Hook model could be an ideal choice because it helps create habit-forming products.
2. What role does marketing play within the organization?
Next, consider how marketing works in your business. Is the focus primarily on lead generation, brand building, customer retention, or a combination thereof?
The role that marketing plays will influence which framework you should adopt. For example, if your marketing team is heavily involved in content creation and brand storytelling, frameworks like STEPPS or They Ask, You Answer could be particularly useful.
3. How is success defined and measured in marketing?
Understanding how success is measured is crucial to choosing the right framework. Does your business prioritize metrics like Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC), Return on Investment (ROI) or Customer Lifetime Value (CLV)? Choose a framework that supports the metrics that matter most to your business.
For example, if customer retention and lifetime value are important metrics, the hook model could help you develop strategies that encourage repeat engagement and long-term loyalty.
4. What can the marketing department do and what improvements would you like to make?
Assess your marketing team’s current capabilities. What are your strengths and where are there opportunities for improvement?
If your team excels at data-driven decision making, frameworks like Lean Analytics Stages can help you maximize that strength. On the other hand, if you want to improve customer segmentation and targeting, the STP marketing model could be the right choice.
5. Where do you want your marketing efforts to have the greatest impact, and what is the easiest way to ensure that impact?
Identify the areas where you want marketing to have the greatest impact. Will this generate more qualified leads, increase brand awareness, or improve conversion rates?
Once you’ve identified these areas, look for a framework that directly supports your goals. For example, if increasing conversions is your main goal, the Pirate Metrics (AARRR) framework could help you optimize every stage of the customer journey, from acquisition to referral.
Choosing the right marketing strategy framework is about more than just choosing a popular model – it’s about finding the model that best fits your company’s unique needs and goals.
By carefully considering your company’s priorities, the role of marketing, success metrics, team skills, and desired impact, you can choose a framework that supports your current goals and provides a solid foundation for future growth.
To them
Marketing is undoubtedly one of the most challenging tasks, regardless of what product or service you are promoting. Without the right marketing efforts, even the most innovative products or services may never reach the people who need them most.
One thing that has always surprised me is how much easier marketing becomes when I have a solid framework to follow. I used to think that creativity alone could lead to success, but I quickly realized that structure and strategy are just as important.
In my experience, implementing a marketing framework has made all the difference. It helps keep the entire team on track, ensures everyone is working toward the same goals, and provides a clear path forward when things get complicated.
If there’s one piece of advice I can give, it’s this: don’t try to overdo it. Let a marketing framework guide you, and you’ll find the path to achieving your goals becomes much clearer – and much less stressful.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January 2022 and has been updated for completeness.