Library Voice

Finally got around to updating WordPress.  Just checking things.

10 Ways to be more productive with your blog  @ Web Worker Daily 

I have not read this yet.  But as you can tell from the lack of posts, I really need to read it.  Perhaps twice.  And then blog about it.

Thanks for reading, even when there’s not much to say.

Don’t you love to see messages like this:

Or this:

The first example is from a webcast that I am scheduled to attend in 10 minutes. The second example is from a business database that we subscribe to. I just wonder when companies are going to get with the program and start to realize that it’s not that my browser is incompatible with their site or service. Rather, their site or service needs to make the “necessary adjustments” so that their service won’t be limited by my browser. As a Firefox user, I only use Internet Explorer in order to use two business databases, and apparently now, to attend this webcast. I should not be forced to use that browser for those purposes. Having to use IE in this way is sort of silly. It’s almost like taking your own silverware to a restaurant, just in case the restaurant isn’t modern enough to use silverware. And really, who uses Netscape??

“Sanoodi is the fun new way to record and share details of all your favourite outdoor activities. Sanoodi is for you, whether you are a triathlete or somebody that enjoys walking on a Sunday afternoon. Use Sanoodi to explore new places and draw or upload unlimited routes.”

I used Sanoodi to map out some of my cycling routes around town. It works very similarly to Gmaps Pedometer in that it allows you to track distances by drawing points on a map. Sanoodi goes beyond Gmaps, as it allows you to create a profile and save your routes within your profile. You can then send your cycling/running buddies a link to your profile or to your favorite route. You can even link to your flickr account, allowing you to show pictures of your route. Sanoodi also supports tagging, so users can tag their route with landmarks, the weather, or whatever. One of my favorite features of Sanoodi is that is tracks mileage and elevation. Runners and cyclists appreciate knowing how big the hills are. If you’re into cycling, running, or any other outdoor activity that requires the use of improved roads, take a look at Sanoodi.

This time of year, I’m glued to the television each night to watch coverage of the world’s greatest race, the Tour de France.  Despite the scandal of last year’s doping allegations, I’m still very interested in the sport, and I hope that it will recover.  Several are blogging the tour, and I’ve subscribed to a few of the blogs.

The Tour de France for the rest of us is “for those of us who stand on the outside of the Tour de France looking in. It tries to get past techno-babble and opens up the heart of this great cycling event to the rest of us. Enjoy the ride!”

Martin Dugard also covers the tour.  He is the New York Times bestselling author of Chasing Lance (Little, Brown), a behind-the-scenes look at life at the Tour de France.

The TDF Blog also provides coverage, pictures, and videos of the race.

Looking at getting an iPhone? Ars Technica has a rather extensive testing and review of the iPhone. Some of what they put the phone through will make your cringe, including dropping the phone from a 3rd story window and sliding it down a sidewalk face down. In the end, Ars gave the phone an 8 out of ten, citing the following:

Pros:

• Web surfing experience is superior to other phones
• Overall SMS experience is great
• Practically non-scratchable
• Looks fantastic in every way
• Easy to use, self-discoverable
• Soft keyboard is definitely usable
• iPod interface rocks

Cons:

• iPhone is currently locked to AT&T
• No worthwhile Exchange support
• No wireless syncing over Bluetooth or WiFi, must tether via USB, no modem use at all
• Extremely quiet ringer/alert/speakerphone volume
• Windows version of iTunes cause a few hiccups
• Application support is weak
• E-mail implementation feels weak, uninspired

Personally I am very happy with my Treo 700p, as the range of third-party applications allows me to do things that the iPhone cannot do. The Treo is definitely not as sexy as the iPhone, but it does a great job keeping me connected with my calendar, texting, calls, email, and much, much more. I’ll eventually get around to writing a post about what I use my Treo for. I think the iPhone is a great product for some, although the price is a little high. Honestly, I’m more excited about the impact that Apple’s latest gadget/fashion accessory/phone/ipod will have on other phone providers. As a long-time Palm user, I will be curious to see how (or if) Palm counters Apple’s new offering.