Happy Holidays from the creative crew at Your Plan B Company!
Our office will be closed from Wednesday, December 22, 2010 - Sunday, January 2, 2011.
(We will be back at our desks 10am CST on Monday, January 3, 2011.)
If you need anything please leave a voicemail at 773-665-2552 or email jameyb@yourplanb.com
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
There is so much information out there that we would like to share with you to help your web project succeed, that we decided it would be best if we blogged it. This blog is our 2008-2012 archive. You can keep up to date on web news, resources, SEO and marketing trends, new technology, print and color trends and sometimes something just for fun at our NEW blog at yourplanb.com/thebuzz !
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Five things Spongebob Squarepants can teach you about business.
As you may (or may not) know, we are HUGE Spongebob fans here at Your Plan B Company! We quote the show daily, celebrate Spongebob related holidays and watch the show at lunchtime. One of us even remodeled a bathroom into a Spongebob theme!
So when we came across this article "Five things Spongebob Squarepants can teach you about business." from AOL Small Business we couldn't resist sharing it with you!
"Nickelodeon's SpongeBob SquarePants, with its brightly hued colors and juvenile hijinks, may seem like the last place you should look for business or career advice. But if you take a slightly closer look at SpongeBob's madcap energy and Mr. Krabs' relentless pursuit to sell Krabby Patties, you'll notice some familiar workplace scenarios -- and some surprisingly important lessons..."
Monday, December 6, 2010
Email Etiquette
Found this very helpful article "49 Ways to Improve Your Email Brand"
As we all get more and more comfortable using the Internet to communicate, some timely reminders on how to send a successful email is always welcome. If we get too comfortable, our desired message may disappear.
Consider everything from:
- Creating Your Image
- Setting Up Your Email Address
- Identifying Your Subject
- Formatting Your Message
- Writing Your Message
- Sending Emails
- Responding to Emails
- Calling versus Emailing
- Forwarding Other Emails
- Using Special Features
- Controlling Spam and Spam filters
"Every email you send makes an impression and plays a role in defining your personal brand." from www.littlethingsmatter.com
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at jameyb@yourplanb.com
As we all get more and more comfortable using the Internet to communicate, some timely reminders on how to send a successful email is always welcome. If we get too comfortable, our desired message may disappear.
Consider everything from:
- Creating Your Image
- Setting Up Your Email Address
- Identifying Your Subject
- Formatting Your Message
- Writing Your Message
- Sending Emails
- Responding to Emails
- Calling versus Emailing
- Forwarding Other Emails
- Using Special Features
- Controlling Spam and Spam filters
"Every email you send makes an impression and plays a role in defining your personal brand." from www.littlethingsmatter.com
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at jameyb@yourplanb.com
Monday, November 29, 2010
client blogs
It occurred to us that some of our clients would enjoy reading each others blogs!
There is so much great information out there and Your Plan B Company works with so many talented groups, organizations and companies. Let's share!
CareGivingHelp's Viewpoint
Chicago History Museum's blog
Field of Green's Food and Lifestyle Counseling
KruzinUSA's PonyGirl blog
MEEA Unplugged
MEEA Crosslight/Solid State Lighting news
Motorbrain's Spark Club
RideLawrence
Spatulatta
Susan Rosenstein's Hirer Hires
Woman Road Warrior's For women going places
and of course ours! The one you are reading right here (thank you!)
If you would like to add a blog to your website there are many options. Give us a call to discuss which one would work for you and your audience.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Happy Holidays from the creative crew at Your Plan B Company!
Our favorite things about Thanksgiving...
JameyB: "It is my mother's favorite holiday, so she goes all out with a beautiful table, lots of people over and delicious food. I try my hardest to never miss the holiday at her house. My favorite food is pumpkin pie with whipped cream on top. I steal tiny slices all day so it doesn't look like an entire piece is missing all at once! Don't tell her or else she won't leave the pies out!!"
Cat: "Thanksgiving has always been a wonderful time to spend with my family and I treasure every year as I watch the family grow. Some of my favorite memories of Thanksgiving at my house are inviting friends from other parts of the world to partake in the tradition. It is fun to be able to share our culture with others in a warm and inviting way. Besides, who doesn't love bringing out jellied cranberries wiggling away on a lovely serving dish to see faces of astonishment? I know I do!"
DavidB: "I always love the colours this time of year. From the yellow leaves on the ground that swirl in the wind to soft lighting to overcast skies, this can be a good time to take fantastic photos! When I was young, I spent Thanksgivings in San Antonio, they just don't have the same fall colours - but Gradmother DID make an amazing Guacamole - not your traditional Thanksgiving food but, hey, it's Texas."
Some cool holiday sites:
marthastewart.com
history.com
thelocaltourist.com
familyfun.go.com
family.go.com
spatulatta.com
imdb.com (a quick youtube of the show: youtube.com)
Happy Holidays from the creative crew at Your Plan B Company!
Monday, November 15, 2010
NEW! Blog for MEEA!
MEEA Unplugged
Another great project with the folks at Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance!
We helped them set up a Word Press blog template and designed the logo.
Blogs are a great way to get your entire organization working online. You can each be the editor. And now with all the cool plug ins you can have Twitter feeds, RSS, video etc all in one place for your audience to find out more about you!
If you want to begin blogging or refresh yours with custom graphics, give us a call!
Another great project with the folks at Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance!
We helped them set up a Word Press blog template and designed the logo.
Blogs are a great way to get your entire organization working online. You can each be the editor. And now with all the cool plug ins you can have Twitter feeds, RSS, video etc all in one place for your audience to find out more about you!
If you want to begin blogging or refresh yours with custom graphics, give us a call!
Monday, November 8, 2010
social networks and marketing part two
Following up on social networks, we thought these links might be helpful to you as you market online.
online resources:
• Oneforty – A list of all third-party applications
• Tweetdeck – Third-party application to manage Twitter accounts
• Search.Twitter.com – Twitter search
• Twellow – Identify people to follow based off of details in their Twitter bio
• WeFollow – Identify people to follow based off of how they classify themselves
• Tweetphoto – Photo sharing service
• WTHashtag – Top resource for tracking hashtag mentions
• Twitalyzer – Most sophisticated Twitter analytics tool
• Listorious – Aggregator of Twitter lists
• Flowtown – Import current email addresses, locate social networks
• Flavors.me – Aggregate online profiles in one place
• Help a Reporter Out – Media opportunities
• Pitchengine – Social media release and newsroom
• Knowem – Find where your name is available and secure it
• Alexa – Find details about your Web site and audience
• Bit.ly – URL shortener
• J.mp – A shorter version of bit.ly (they are one and the same…simply a shorter version of its predecessor)
• Google Reader – RSS aggregator
• Google Alerts – Aggregates online mentions
• Addict-o-matic – Digital dashboard
• Blog Pulse – Supplement to Google Alerts to find mentions in blog posts
• Quarkbase – Overview of monthly web visits and other analytics
• Board Tracker – Find brand mentions on online forums and discussion boards
• Pitchengine – Social media release platform
• HelpAReporter – Free media opportunity network
• SocialMention – Analytics and sentiment
• Twellohood – Find people tweeting by location
• Constant Contact – Email campaign platform
To discuss your online marketing through social networks, contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
online resources:
• Oneforty – A list of all third-party applications
• Tweetdeck – Third-party application to manage Twitter accounts
• Search.Twitter.com – Twitter search
• Twellow – Identify people to follow based off of details in their Twitter bio
• WeFollow – Identify people to follow based off of how they classify themselves
• Tweetphoto – Photo sharing service
• WTHashtag – Top resource for tracking hashtag mentions
• Twitalyzer – Most sophisticated Twitter analytics tool
• Listorious – Aggregator of Twitter lists
• Flowtown – Import current email addresses, locate social networks
• Flavors.me – Aggregate online profiles in one place
• Help a Reporter Out – Media opportunities
• Pitchengine – Social media release and newsroom
• Knowem – Find where your name is available and secure it
• Alexa – Find details about your Web site and audience
• Bit.ly – URL shortener
• J.mp – A shorter version of bit.ly (they are one and the same…simply a shorter version of its predecessor)
• Google Reader – RSS aggregator
• Google Alerts – Aggregates online mentions
• Addict-o-matic – Digital dashboard
• Blog Pulse – Supplement to Google Alerts to find mentions in blog posts
• Quarkbase – Overview of monthly web visits and other analytics
• Board Tracker – Find brand mentions on online forums and discussion boards
• Pitchengine – Social media release platform
• HelpAReporter – Free media opportunity network
• SocialMention – Analytics and sentiment
• Twellohood – Find people tweeting by location
• Constant Contact – Email campaign platform
To discuss your online marketing through social networks, contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
Monday, November 1, 2010
social networks and marketing part one
Curious about all those icons popping up on sites?
Like YouTube, Twitter, Blog, Linked in etc. Well those are links to social networks the site participates in.
What are social networks?
Channels for interacting, using accessible publishing techniques. Social media use web-based technologies to transform and broadcast media monologues allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content.” -Wikipedia
Did you know?
51% Get News From 'People They Follow’
79% of the 100 largest Fortune 500 use Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or blogs to communicate with customers, with Twitter as the platform of choice.
(Credit: Burson-Marsteller Fortune Global 100 Social Media Study)
Rule of thumb: It takes, on average, five activities to draw an audience to your site.
Have you established your social media policy?
(Or integrate with existing communications policy.)
Consider:
• Identify who can say what, when and where
• Know when you will/will not respond
• Crisis communications
• Sustainability
• Exit strategy
• Do employees need training?
• Examples of appropriate social media use versus abusing time online
If you need assistance with your corporate social networks and marketing, please contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
Like YouTube, Twitter, Blog, Linked in etc. Well those are links to social networks the site participates in.
What are social networks?
Channels for interacting, using accessible publishing techniques. Social media use web-based technologies to transform and broadcast media monologues allow the creation and exchange of user-generated content.” -Wikipedia
Did you know?
51% Get News From 'People They Follow’
79% of the 100 largest Fortune 500 use Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or blogs to communicate with customers, with Twitter as the platform of choice.
(Credit: Burson-Marsteller Fortune Global 100 Social Media Study)
Rule of thumb: It takes, on average, five activities to draw an audience to your site.
Have you established your social media policy?
(Or integrate with existing communications policy.)
Consider:
• Identify who can say what, when and where
• Know when you will/will not respond
• Crisis communications
• Sustainability
• Exit strategy
• Do employees need training?
• Examples of appropriate social media use versus abusing time online
If you need assistance with your corporate social networks and marketing, please contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
Monday, October 25, 2010
Happy Halloween!
Halloween online!
One of our favorite holidays and there are so many spooky sites to enjoy!
Here's 13 to get you started!
gothtober.com
halloweenarcade.com
benjerry.com/fun/halloween
stoneykins.com
familyfun.go.com/halloween
funhalloweendecorations.com
kraftrecipes.com
marthastewart.com/photogallery/pumpkins
countdowntohalloween.com
pumpkincult.com
spookyinc.com
history.com/topics/halloween
jackolanterns.net/traditions.htm
HAPPY HALLOWEEN from Your Plan B Company!
One of our favorite holidays and there are so many spooky sites to enjoy!
Here's 13 to get you started!
gothtober.com
halloweenarcade.com
benjerry.com/fun/halloween
stoneykins.com
familyfun.go.com/halloween
funhalloweendecorations.com
kraftrecipes.com
marthastewart.com/photogallery/pumpkins
countdowntohalloween.com
pumpkincult.com
spookyinc.com
history.com/topics/halloween
jackolanterns.net/traditions.htm
HAPPY HALLOWEEN from Your Plan B Company!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Save the Date! Celebration is coming soon!
The 21st Anniversary of Over the Rainbow Association is coming!
Sunday, December 21, 2010
4pm at Northwestern University's Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Evanston, IL.
An unforgettable evening featuring these outstanding artists:
- The beautiful soprano Nancy Gustafson, the heart and soul of Celebration for 21 years
- The popular and ever-versatile tenor Richard Leech
- The world's sweetheart and multi-dimensional Sylvia McNair
- Direct from the original cast of teh Broadway sensation, Wicked, Michael Davies
You can order tickets online!
Or call Tara Moran at 847-424-5604
DavidB and I have gone to this event over and over and LOVE it! The audience, the performers, the reason we are all there! It is just a great night and you will leave singing :)
We have enjoyed working with Over the Rainbow Association since 1995.
Sunday, December 21, 2010
4pm at Northwestern University's Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, Evanston, IL.
An unforgettable evening featuring these outstanding artists:
- The beautiful soprano Nancy Gustafson, the heart and soul of Celebration for 21 years
- The popular and ever-versatile tenor Richard Leech
- The world's sweetheart and multi-dimensional Sylvia McNair
- Direct from the original cast of teh Broadway sensation, Wicked, Michael Davies
You can order tickets online!
Or call Tara Moran at 847-424-5604
DavidB and I have gone to this event over and over and LOVE it! The audience, the performers, the reason we are all there! It is just a great night and you will leave singing :)
We have enjoyed working with Over the Rainbow Association since 1995.
Monday, October 11, 2010
A day in the life - catherine larson, lead designer at yourplanb.com
A day in the life of a Cat.
Hello! I'm Cat and as much as I may wish to spend my days lazily sleeping in the sun, as Lead Designer at Your Plan B, my day is met with a bit more activity than just any ordinary cat.
If I had to pick just one word to describe what I do, it would be: interpret. As Lead designer you would think most of the day I am designing away, but a title is just that, a title. In reality one's job encompasses much more than what one title can hold. The following details a day in the life of me, Cat. (Hey that's me!)
After my commute via bicycle, the first thing I do is to make sure nothing is on fire! No no, not real fire - I save that for our local firefighters. I mean anything that deserves immediate attention and must be dealt with directly. Once this has been met with swift action only then may the day's originally scheduled programming begin.
So what is in the morning's originally scheduled programming?
Meetings. Our office is designed in such a way that when working on joint projects we can turn quickly to one another to brainstorm, ask questions, etc.
Site Maintenance. With over 13 years of working on websites, we have quite a few sites to maintain, which we do with great aplomb.
Research. Every client is different, and this means constantly learning new ways to achieve their desired goals. Part of the day is always spent researching new technologies, reading reviews, and testing them out on our own sites.
Backing up. Depending on the size of the website, this can take five minutes to hours. And this MUST be done before making changes to the website. This is so that there is always a backup of what was previously on the web before any changes were made to it. This may seem like a step that could be skipped, but having that backup is crucial to maintaining a website.
The afternoon is usually when the actual coding occurs at my desk. By now I have compiled the list of tasks, the sites have been backed up, and I am ready to make any edits, or build out any newly designed sites. These do not necessarily happen everyday but they are part of my regular tasks. So much of working in this digital age requires back and forth communication before ever getting to the virtual drawing board. Once I am certain I understand what the client has requested, work begins based on the notes from the previous meetings.
Site Development. This is when the actual coding happens.
Browser Testing. These are enough to give anyone a headache out there. But having options is an incredibly good thing. As web designers we must design for the majority, but make sure that the sites we create will function on other browsers as well.
The day continues in this vein, until it wraps itself up in preparation to begin the next. Because each project is different, I am always learning something new, be it the latin names of plants, or the proper way to make a vegan raw drink. It keeps me on my toes, and definitely not napping on the favorite chair in the sunlight like your cat or dog may be doing right now.
Hello! I'm Cat and as much as I may wish to spend my days lazily sleeping in the sun, as Lead Designer at Your Plan B, my day is met with a bit more activity than just any ordinary cat.
If I had to pick just one word to describe what I do, it would be: interpret. As Lead designer you would think most of the day I am designing away, but a title is just that, a title. In reality one's job encompasses much more than what one title can hold. The following details a day in the life of me, Cat. (Hey that's me!)
After my commute via bicycle, the first thing I do is to make sure nothing is on fire! No no, not real fire - I save that for our local firefighters. I mean anything that deserves immediate attention and must be dealt with directly. Once this has been met with swift action only then may the day's originally scheduled programming begin.
So what is in the morning's originally scheduled programming?
Meetings. Our office is designed in such a way that when working on joint projects we can turn quickly to one another to brainstorm, ask questions, etc.
Site Maintenance. With over 13 years of working on websites, we have quite a few sites to maintain, which we do with great aplomb.
Research. Every client is different, and this means constantly learning new ways to achieve their desired goals. Part of the day is always spent researching new technologies, reading reviews, and testing them out on our own sites.
Backing up. Depending on the size of the website, this can take five minutes to hours. And this MUST be done before making changes to the website. This is so that there is always a backup of what was previously on the web before any changes were made to it. This may seem like a step that could be skipped, but having that backup is crucial to maintaining a website.
The afternoon is usually when the actual coding occurs at my desk. By now I have compiled the list of tasks, the sites have been backed up, and I am ready to make any edits, or build out any newly designed sites. These do not necessarily happen everyday but they are part of my regular tasks. So much of working in this digital age requires back and forth communication before ever getting to the virtual drawing board. Once I am certain I understand what the client has requested, work begins based on the notes from the previous meetings.
Site Development. This is when the actual coding happens.
Browser Testing. These are enough to give anyone a headache out there. But having options is an incredibly good thing. As web designers we must design for the majority, but make sure that the sites we create will function on other browsers as well.
The day continues in this vein, until it wraps itself up in preparation to begin the next. Because each project is different, I am always learning something new, be it the latin names of plants, or the proper way to make a vegan raw drink. It keeps me on my toes, and definitely not napping on the favorite chair in the sunlight like your cat or dog may be doing right now.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Our Top 10 web design online resources
At least once a week we are asked for some of our favorite web design resources on the web. Here's our quick answer!
htmlplayground.com
alistapart.com
webmonkey.com
webpagesthatsuck.com
webdesign.about.com
webdesignbooth.com
gmarketing.com
searchenginewatch.com
tripwiremagazine.com
w3.org
If you have any favorites to share or any questions about web design, please feel free to contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
htmlplayground.com
alistapart.com
webmonkey.com
webpagesthatsuck.com
webdesign.about.com
webdesignbooth.com
gmarketing.com
searchenginewatch.com
tripwiremagazine.com
w3.org
If you have any favorites to share or any questions about web design, please feel free to contact jameyb@yourplanb.com
Monday, September 27, 2010
DavidB's stock photography resources
Beloit has always been a very exciting place to photograph. Being in the Midwest, you are given your choice of 4 complete seasons - each one offering dynamic possibilities for photography. As a student, I was always in awe of Chuck Savage's work and friendly personality - you don't always find they go hand in hand. It has been so much fun taking photos for Beloit - and every event gets me excited to look for a new piece of equipment to get for next year's homecoming or reunion! You can get overwhelmed, and I have to remember what many pros have told me, all the best equipment won't make a good photographer! However, sometimes you do need to upgrade, so I have come up with a list of places I find helpful...
ABT.com, wolfcamera.com, target.com
Before you start to research, you may want to get a feel for what SIZE of a camera you are comfortable with. The internet can give you all the specs of the insides, but nothing beats the feel of the camera. Sometimes people with bigger hands don't like the little buttons, sometimes 5 pounds sounds light until you pick up a 5 pound camera and realize that a 10 hour hike with that weight around your neck will NOT be comfortable. I would suggest going to Wolf Camera if you have photographic questions, their sales staff seems to be very knowledgable and interested, not just there for the sale.
dpreview.com
If I can't decide on which lens or camera might fit your needs, I ALWAYS refer to the in-depth reviews from dpreviews.com. You can compare different cameras in a side-by-side comparison grid, or read the very in-depth reviews and view sample galleries.
amazon.com
Amazon is always a good place to check what the real going prices are, as well as real-world customer reviews. Unlike dpreview, Amazon reviews are to be taken with a grain of salt as they might very well be a rep from the manufacturer giving 5 stars, or a competitor giving 1 star. I can usually get a more hands-on feel for the camera with Amazon, however, because people will write reviews about very detailed problems or strong factors for cameras, lenses, batteries, etc. I would advise against purchasing a camera with no reviews yet.
porters.com
Porters is a friendly, smaller company that usually can offer you great prices, and you can actually talk with someone, unlike the HUGE companies. They may not have everything available, but they may have some fun obscure specials, and they also offer printable tips on how to be a better photographer.
bhphotovideo.com
If you are looking for high end, or expensive Pro equipment, I would suggest B+H out of New York. This place is usually only for the pros, but you can get almost anything available there. They have EVERYTHING!
Email DavidB to chat about cameras, photography or design!
ABT.com, wolfcamera.com, target.com
Before you start to research, you may want to get a feel for what SIZE of a camera you are comfortable with. The internet can give you all the specs of the insides, but nothing beats the feel of the camera. Sometimes people with bigger hands don't like the little buttons, sometimes 5 pounds sounds light until you pick up a 5 pound camera and realize that a 10 hour hike with that weight around your neck will NOT be comfortable. I would suggest going to Wolf Camera if you have photographic questions, their sales staff seems to be very knowledgable and interested, not just there for the sale.
dpreview.com
If I can't decide on which lens or camera might fit your needs, I ALWAYS refer to the in-depth reviews from dpreviews.com. You can compare different cameras in a side-by-side comparison grid, or read the very in-depth reviews and view sample galleries.
amazon.com
Amazon is always a good place to check what the real going prices are, as well as real-world customer reviews. Unlike dpreview, Amazon reviews are to be taken with a grain of salt as they might very well be a rep from the manufacturer giving 5 stars, or a competitor giving 1 star. I can usually get a more hands-on feel for the camera with Amazon, however, because people will write reviews about very detailed problems or strong factors for cameras, lenses, batteries, etc. I would advise against purchasing a camera with no reviews yet.
porters.com
Porters is a friendly, smaller company that usually can offer you great prices, and you can actually talk with someone, unlike the HUGE companies. They may not have everything available, but they may have some fun obscure specials, and they also offer printable tips on how to be a better photographer.
bhphotovideo.com
If you are looking for high end, or expensive Pro equipment, I would suggest B+H out of New York. This place is usually only for the pros, but you can get almost anything available there. They have EVERYTHING!
Email DavidB to chat about cameras, photography or design!
Monday, September 20, 2010
DavidB, not only a web designer, but also a photographer.
As a photographer, I always have a camera on me, and have since I was young. It has been fascinating to see the industry change over the years. With the advent of digital photography, you can save money in the long run - no film to buy, no processing to deal with. Hardware is still a consideration, and now you usually want some sort of editing software (I would only recommend Adobe products).
Until the internet became a household word, it was a challenge to share your photographs with the world. Then came the internet boom, and Flickr.com, as well as other photo sharing web sites. Flickr allows me to show my photos to the world, as well as help me track what photos were taken when. Flickr also allows you to track what camera was used for your photos, and look at other photos taken with the same make and
model of camera!
I have been able to discuss, comment, and ask advice of pro photographers, as well as hobbyist who surprise themselves finding that they can take great photos too. Many people would have never been able to show their photos to friends or other photographers until Flickr. You can still print photos too, though now the internet has high quality printing services - my favourite right now is SnapFish.com
You may have seen some of DavidB's photos in the recent Beloit College Magazine! And on the Homecoming/Reunion postcard mailer.
If you need photos for your website, please give us a call. (Or if you just want to talk cameras!)
Until the internet became a household word, it was a challenge to share your photographs with the world. Then came the internet boom, and Flickr.com, as well as other photo sharing web sites. Flickr allows me to show my photos to the world, as well as help me track what photos were taken when. Flickr also allows you to track what camera was used for your photos, and look at other photos taken with the same make and
model of camera!
I have been able to discuss, comment, and ask advice of pro photographers, as well as hobbyist who surprise themselves finding that they can take great photos too. Many people would have never been able to show their photos to friends or other photographers until Flickr. You can still print photos too, though now the internet has high quality printing services - my favourite right now is SnapFish.com
You may have seen some of DavidB's photos in the recent Beloit College Magazine! And on the Homecoming/Reunion postcard mailer.
If you need photos for your website, please give us a call. (Or if you just want to talk cameras!)
Monday, September 13, 2010
The nature of motivation
Every so often a link is sent to one of us here at YourPlanB.com that we just have to share!
This is one of those times. It is a really interesting animated essay about motivation: Tobias Buckell blog with a quick 10 minute talk Dan did about motivation:
I am about to pick up Dan Pink’s book about motivation, called Drive.
Sounds like a good read!
This is one of those times. It is a really interesting animated essay about motivation: Tobias Buckell blog with a quick 10 minute talk Dan did about motivation:
I am about to pick up Dan Pink’s book about motivation, called Drive.
Sounds like a good read!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Countdown to the 5th Annual Woman Road Warrior Day!
This Year's Theme: Women Who Go the Extra Mile and the Shoes They Do It In
Who's Eligible?
Any woman who travels as part of her business and who exemplifies "going the extra mile." This could be someone who travels the farthest, travels the most or does the most unusual or complicated travel. We are also interested in people who "go the extra mile" by the business or community service they provide.
Who can nominate?
Any friend, colleague, family member or admirer
How do I nominate someone?
Please submit your nominations here!
Event details: The Great Shoe Show EXTRAVAGANZA
Fashion Show & First Class Breakfast
September 21st 7-9:30am
THE STANDARD CLUB OF CHICAGO
320 South Plymouth Court
Chicago, IL 60604-3859
See womanroadwarrior.com for registration details!
Monday, August 30, 2010
SITE LAUNCH RosensteinPropertyLaw.com
Property lawyer Richard Rosenstein wasn't looking to build the paperless office. He came to Your Plan B Co. with the idea for a web site that would supplement the traditional paper correspondence that was the hallmark of his law practice. His site allows visitors to get the basics on real estate law and determine whether or not they have a case.
Richard's orginal site was launched in the Fall of 2002.
Since then, times have changed online and now his new site reflects that!
Kudos to him for keeping his site current and his content clear.
We look forward to working with him into the future.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Back to School
Hard to believe but it is that time of year again! School supplies, agendas and homework.
Thought you might like some links to help our teachers and their students:
http://www.senatorsteans.com/teacherwishlist/
http://www.donorschoose.org/
http://www.goodwill.org/press-releases/join-the-donate-movement-by-supporting-the-goodwill-and-family-circle/
http://www.salvationarmy.com/usn/www_usn_2.nsf
And for fun, send Sharpie your doodles!
Did you know there is a bona-fide science behind the art of doodling? Sharpie is giving you the chance to have a real doodling expert translate your casual scribbles into surprising conclusions. Click to submit your doodle to the Showcase!
http://sharpieuncapped.com/default.aspx?gclid=CPqy7Pf7wKMCFWBd5QodtWH0ag
And if your student happens to be heading to college, check out the Beloit College Mindset List for the Class of 2014! http://www.beloit.edu/mindset/2014.php
Best of luck to all you students out there!
May your pencils never dull and your brain stay sharp :)
Thought you might like some links to help our teachers and their students:
http://www.senatorsteans.com/teacherwishlist/
http://www.donorschoose.org/
http://www.goodwill.org/press-releases/join-the-donate-movement-by-supporting-the-goodwill-and-family-circle/
http://www.salvationarmy.com/usn/www_usn_2.nsf
And for fun, send Sharpie your doodles!
Did you know there is a bona-fide science behind the art of doodling? Sharpie is giving you the chance to have a real doodling expert translate your casual scribbles into surprising conclusions. Click to submit your doodle to the Showcase!
http://sharpieuncapped.com/default.aspx?gclid=CPqy7Pf7wKMCFWBd5QodtWH0ag
And if your student happens to be heading to college, check out the Beloit College Mindset List for the Class of 2014! http://www.beloit.edu/mindset/2014.php
Best of luck to all you students out there!
May your pencils never dull and your brain stay sharp :)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Are you an online moderator?
Are you a moderator of a small or giant online group?
Here are some helpful references for you! Moderating can be a fulfilling task or it can be a tiresome chore. We hope these help you make your group site the best it can be!
http://www.10e20.com/blog/2009/04/30/social-networking-101-basic-tips-for-online-and-offline-social-networking/
http://www.theadminzone.com/
http://www.well.com/confteam/hosting.html
http://www.wikihow.com/Moderate-an-Online-Community
http://www.ojr.org/ojr/stories/050623mallasch/
And for fun, may we suggest a very funny book about life as an online moderator (you could replace the word vampire fan with your subculture site and I bet it rings just as true) Will the Vampire People Please Leave the Lobby? (True Adventures in Cult Fandom) (Paperback) from Amazon.com
Here are some helpful references for you! Moderating can be a fulfilling task or it can be a tiresome chore. We hope these help you make your group site the best it can be!
http://www.10e20.com/blog/2009/04/30/social-networking-101-basic-tips-for-online-and-offline-social-networking/
http://www.theadminzone.com/
http://www.well.com/confteam/hosting.html
http://www.wikihow.com/Moderate-an-Online-Community
http://www.ojr.org/ojr/stories/050623mallasch/
And for fun, may we suggest a very funny book about life as an online moderator (you could replace the word vampire fan with your subculture site and I bet it rings just as true) Will the Vampire People Please Leave the Lobby? (True Adventures in Cult Fandom) (Paperback) from Amazon.com
Monday, August 9, 2010
Powerpoint - yes or no?
Thought you might like this article from the New York Times "We Have Met the Enemy and He Is PowerPoint".
In an article that Cat had to read for class (from the New Yorker "Twilight of the Books - What will life be like if people stop reading?") there was this paragraph:
"In a study published this year, experimenters varied the way that people took in a PowerPoint presentation about the country of Mali. Those who were allowed to read silently were more likely to agree with the statement “The presentation was interesting,” and those who read along with an audiovisual commentary were more likely to agree with the statement “I did not learn anything from this presentation.” The silent readers remembered more, too, a finding in line with a series of British studies in which people who read transcripts of television newscasts, political programs, advertisements, and science shows recalled more information than those who had watched the shows themselves.
Read more...
So the questions is - continue using Powerpoint, yes or no?
At Your Plan B Company we will work with what our clients need us to work with. (However, we would LOVE to stop using Powerpoint and try something new...how about you?)
In an article that Cat had to read for class (from the New Yorker "Twilight of the Books - What will life be like if people stop reading?") there was this paragraph:
"In a study published this year, experimenters varied the way that people took in a PowerPoint presentation about the country of Mali. Those who were allowed to read silently were more likely to agree with the statement “The presentation was interesting,” and those who read along with an audiovisual commentary were more likely to agree with the statement “I did not learn anything from this presentation.” The silent readers remembered more, too, a finding in line with a series of British studies in which people who read transcripts of television newscasts, political programs, advertisements, and science shows recalled more information than those who had watched the shows themselves.
Read more...
So the questions is - continue using Powerpoint, yes or no?
At Your Plan B Company we will work with what our clients need us to work with. (However, we would LOVE to stop using Powerpoint and try something new...how about you?)
Monday, August 2, 2010
new WordPress site! ridelawrence.com
WordPress is an easy to use from the design side to the user admin side. Especially for smaller sites (ones without the need of multiple level navigation). RideLawrence.com is just the example.
We worked with the team in Lawrence, KS to put together this site quickly and within their budget just in time for their event. With some additional items like a Facebook badge and Twitter, the fans have a home. And the client has a place to keep all the important information contained and current. The best thing is this site can grow as it needs to. If you are in the area, mark your calendar for next years event!
Do you need an easy to update website? Something that uses a content management system but is a small site? Check out WordPress or give us a call to brainstorm something for you! Call 773-665-2552
Monday, July 26, 2010
Cat's artwork mentioned in the Washington Post!
Lead Designer and artist, Catherine Larson (aka Cat) had a great show in D.C. this June. She was interviewed by the Washington Post! CONGRATS!
Show information: The 2010 International VSA Festival June 6-12, 2010
Here's the write up that includes a mention of her piece:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/21/AR2010062104099.html
And here's another article about the show.
What's next for Cat? We will keep you posted!
Show information: The 2010 International VSA Festival June 6-12, 2010
Here's the write up that includes a mention of her piece:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/06/21/AR2010062104099.html
And here's another article about the show.
What's next for Cat? We will keep you posted!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Where is JameyB when she isn't in the office?
Thought you might enjoy hearing what another one of us does in our free-time...
JameyB is the current President of the Beloit College Alumni Board. From speaking at Commencement, to event planning to assisting with campus issues and being an active participant at Homecoming/Reunion, she is happiest when working with the 15 member Alumni Board.
JameyB enjoys volunteering with her alma mater and is inspired by the students there today! And loves getting together with alum and parents of alum. There is just something special about Beloiters. On June 26th we celebrated the 3rd Annual International BRAG (Beloit Regional Alumni Gathering). Over 51 cities and 400+ participants got together world-wide. Chicago had 2 events, one in Roscoe Village and another in Wheaton. Chicago is one of the largest Alumni clusters, next to Beloit, WI.
But never fear, JameyB's love of the internet will keep her weaving web sites and learning all things about online marketing.
JameyB is the current President of the Beloit College Alumni Board. From speaking at Commencement, to event planning to assisting with campus issues and being an active participant at Homecoming/Reunion, she is happiest when working with the 15 member Alumni Board.
JameyB enjoys volunteering with her alma mater and is inspired by the students there today! And loves getting together with alum and parents of alum. There is just something special about Beloiters. On June 26th we celebrated the 3rd Annual International BRAG (Beloit Regional Alumni Gathering). Over 51 cities and 400+ participants got together world-wide. Chicago had 2 events, one in Roscoe Village and another in Wheaton. Chicago is one of the largest Alumni clusters, next to Beloit, WI.
But never fear, JameyB's love of the internet will keep her weaving web sites and learning all things about online marketing.
Monday, July 12, 2010
added functionality to a client site! welcome "the crosslight blog" at mwalliance.org
When we were working on the remodel for the MEEA website and converting it to a CMS (Drupal), ideas were brewing for a blog. Word came down that we could add a blog and whammo - - here it is!
The Crosslight blog features up-to-the-minute SSL updates 1-3x times a week.
It features:
- R&D and technology updates
- Interviews with industry leaders
- Info on activities in the region
- News flashes on any important announcements from DOE or others
And the client can manage posts, images and comments through the admin tool.
If you are interested in adding a blog to your site, give us a call to brainstorm the best route, name and maybe a logo design! Call 773-665-2552
The Crosslight blog features up-to-the-minute SSL updates 1-3x times a week.
It features:
- R&D and technology updates
- Interviews with industry leaders
- Info on activities in the region
- News flashes on any important announcements from DOE or others
And the client can manage posts, images and comments through the admin tool.
If you are interested in adding a blog to your site, give us a call to brainstorm the best route, name and maybe a logo design! Call 773-665-2552
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Cat's Nine Year Anniversary with YPBCO
We are so lucky to have Cat on our team!
Her thoughtfulness, attention to detail and creativity is part of the Your Plan B Company success. Lead Designer for the award winning websites (GreatChicagoStories.com, HoosierGroveMuseum.com, ChicagoHistory.org/MyChicago, and KeeptotheCode.com) Not to forget her love of Spongebob (which tells you she has a great sense of humor)!
For fun, here is a photo of Cat back in 2001 as our intern.
(she is third from the left with the red scarf)
In this photo: Matt, Heidi, Cat, John, DavidB and JameyB
Thank you Cat for all that you do!
We look forward to many more projects with you!
Her thoughtfulness, attention to detail and creativity is part of the Your Plan B Company success. Lead Designer for the award winning websites (GreatChicagoStories.com, HoosierGroveMuseum.com, ChicagoHistory.org/MyChicago, and KeeptotheCode.com) Not to forget her love of Spongebob (which tells you she has a great sense of humor)!
For fun, here is a photo of Cat back in 2001 as our intern.
(she is third from the left with the red scarf)
In this photo: Matt, Heidi, Cat, John, DavidB and JameyB
Thank you Cat for all that you do!
We look forward to many more projects with you!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Your Plan B Company is now an Amazon Associate
Every day we get questions from up and coming student designers or clients who want to do more maintenance themselves or friends looking for an insiders perspective....so we decided to make it easy and set up an Amazon Associates shop listing only the items we have bought and tried ourselves.
See the items we suggest ;)
And you should know, if you purchase from our Amazon Associate account, you help grow the office "fun-money-fund" which supports some of the team building, inspiring and silly things we do here at Your Plan B Company. Like (but not limited to) Easter Egg Dying, Talk Like a Pirate Day, Leif Erikson Day, Themed Dress Up Days, Earth Day, Halloween, Random Lunches ordered in, stress relief Dance Dance Revolution and Wii bowling!
Thank you for your support!
And keep asking us questions!
See the items we suggest ;)
And you should know, if you purchase from our Amazon Associate account, you help grow the office "fun-money-fund" which supports some of the team building, inspiring and silly things we do here at Your Plan B Company. Like (but not limited to) Easter Egg Dying, Talk Like a Pirate Day, Leif Erikson Day, Themed Dress Up Days, Earth Day, Halloween, Random Lunches ordered in, stress relief Dance Dance Revolution and Wii bowling!
Thank you for your support!
And keep asking us questions!
Monday, June 21, 2010
YouTube Video Case Study
I now pronounce you monetized: a YouTube video case study
First posted: Thursday, July 30, 2009 | 9:19 AM
"Last week the world watched in wonder as Jill Peterson and Kevin Heinz's wedding party transformed a familiar and predictable tradition into something spontaneous and just flat-out fun. The video, set to R&B star Chris Brown's hypnotic dance jam "Forever," became an overnight sensation, accumulating more than 10 million views on YouTube in less than one week. But as with all great YouTube videos, there's more to this story than simple view counts..."
Read More I now pronounce you monetized: a YouTube video case study from YouTube Biz Blog
First posted: Thursday, July 30, 2009 | 9:19 AM
"Last week the world watched in wonder as Jill Peterson and Kevin Heinz's wedding party transformed a familiar and predictable tradition into something spontaneous and just flat-out fun. The video, set to R&B star Chris Brown's hypnotic dance jam "Forever," became an overnight sensation, accumulating more than 10 million views on YouTube in less than one week. But as with all great YouTube videos, there's more to this story than simple view counts..."
Read More I now pronounce you monetized: a YouTube video case study from YouTube Biz Blog
Monday, June 14, 2010
Top 26 Most Important Rules of Email Etiquette from About.com
Email has become a standard and necessary form of communication for most of us. People have been integrating it into their daily routines since 1993 with AOL becoming global. (Earlier if you were part of ARPANET)
Anyhow, we feel email etiquette is something to review regularly with you and your team and About.com covers it really well. Take a look:
1. Take Another Look Before You Send a Message
Don't send anything you don't want to send.
2. Do Not Default to "Reply All"
"Reply" is good. "Reply to All" is better. Right?
3. Keep Emails Short
Do not intimidate recipients with too much text.
4. Properly Format Your Email Replies, and Be Lazy
Do you think quoting original text in your email replies perfectly is a lot of work? Don't let the '>' intimidate you! Here's a very comfortable, relaxed, quick and still clean and compatible way to reply properly.
5. Write Perfect Subject Lines
Do you make these mistakes in your email subjects? (The key to getting your messages read is not to be clever.)
Continue reading for additional tips...
Anyhow, we feel email etiquette is something to review regularly with you and your team and About.com covers it really well. Take a look:
1. Take Another Look Before You Send a Message
Don't send anything you don't want to send.
2. Do Not Default to "Reply All"
"Reply" is good. "Reply to All" is better. Right?
3. Keep Emails Short
Do not intimidate recipients with too much text.
4. Properly Format Your Email Replies, and Be Lazy
Do you think quoting original text in your email replies perfectly is a lot of work? Don't let the '>' intimidate you! Here's a very comfortable, relaxed, quick and still clean and compatible way to reply properly.
5. Write Perfect Subject Lines
Do you make these mistakes in your email subjects? (The key to getting your messages read is not to be clever.)
Continue reading for additional tips...
Monday, June 7, 2010
June is an extra good month for our Lead Designer, Cat!
First: Happy Birthday on June 9th
It is a pleasure working with you! And even more to be able to call you my friend :)
Second: Congratulations on your artwork being at the Smithsonian (The 2010 International VSA Festival) June 6-12, 2010
Wish we could be there to celebrate with you! Take lots of photos to share!
Third: Another Congrats! on being accepted to Graduate College of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Go get 'em!
To check out Cat's art portfolio, visit catherinelarson.com. To see her work visit our portfolio or to view her resume.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Changing passwords too often?
Please do not change your password
By Mark Pothier
April 11, 2010
"You were right: It’s a waste of your time. A study says much computer security advice is not worth following..."
"...Now, a study has concluded what lots of us have long suspected: Many of these irritating security measures are a waste of time. The study, by a top researcher at Microsoft, found that instructions intended to spare us from costly computer attacks often exact a much steeper price in the form of user effort and time expended..."
Read More from The Boston Globe
By Mark Pothier
April 11, 2010
"You were right: It’s a waste of your time. A study says much computer security advice is not worth following..."
"...Now, a study has concluded what lots of us have long suspected: Many of these irritating security measures are a waste of time. The study, by a top researcher at Microsoft, found that instructions intended to spare us from costly computer attacks often exact a much steeper price in the form of user effort and time expended..."
Read More from The Boston Globe
Monday, May 24, 2010
Congratulations to LateBarChicago.com
Late Bar wins Time Out Chicago 2010 award!
2010 Eat Out Awards
Eat Out Awards: Critics’ Picks
Awards to our favorite Chicago restaurants, bars and chefs of 2010.
Best Reason to Buy Real Estate in Avondale
Read all about it!
Congratulations to Kristine and Dave - you guys are the best :)
If you haven't had a chance to visit LateBarChicago.com, you should go and sample their great selection of drinks and music. Check out some great photos of the bar from Chicago Magazine!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Congratulations to the Beloit College Class of 2010
Our JameyB (Current President of the Beloit College Alumni Board) had the opportunity to speak at the Beloit College 160th Commencement Exercises on Sunday, May 9, 2010. Armed with bubbles (300+ for each graduate), a bubble machine and an enthusiastic welcome to the next group of students to float over from the "Beloit Bubble" to the "Alumni Bubble", she got the crowd laughing and blowing bubbles together. The day was picture perfect! See proof here, thanks to DavidB...
The keynote speaker was Alumni Dad, David Axelrod.
Top Obama adviser tells Beloit College grads to pursue passions
Honorary degrees went to: David Axelrod and Judith A. Miller '72
Emeriti Citations went to: John Rosenwald, B.A., M.A., PhD and Rod Umlas, B.A., M.F.A., PhD
For more details visit the Beloit College website.
For videos of the speeches by David Axelrod and Scott Bierman, visit the college's Vimeo site.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Celebrate OfficialDaveDay.com!
Happy Birthday to our own DavidB :)
Join in our celebration by hopping over to OfficialDaveDay.com and signing up for our mission to have a special day every year for our very special Dave's in our lives! The goal of this site is to collect enough names to have May 14th officially recognized as Official Dave Day! And each year we get closer and closer to our goal.
Here's how you can help...
- Sign up to be counted
- Download the banner and add it to your site
- Add your photos to our ODD Flicker Group
- Subscribe to this blog to keep up to date
- Tell everyone you know about OfficialDaveDay.com
P.S. May 14th is DavidB's birthday, so be sure and wish him a happy one.
(This is a pet project of DavidB's.)
Join in our celebration by hopping over to OfficialDaveDay.com and signing up for our mission to have a special day every year for our very special Dave's in our lives! The goal of this site is to collect enough names to have May 14th officially recognized as Official Dave Day! And each year we get closer and closer to our goal.
Here's how you can help...
- Sign up to be counted
- Download the banner and add it to your site
- Add your photos to our ODD Flicker Group
- Subscribe to this blog to keep up to date
- Tell everyone you know about OfficialDaveDay.com
P.S. May 14th is DavidB's birthday, so be sure and wish him a happy one.
(This is a pet project of DavidB's.)
Monday, May 3, 2010
GIFs, JPGs, PNGs, and TIF, oh my! Not sure what image file type to save that photo as?
Contrary to what many programs tell you, not all image files are interchangeable. For faster downloads, image files need to be compressed. Each image file compresses the information in a different way.
GIF : Graphics Interchange Format
(the "G" is hard, like GIFT, not soft like JIFF)
GIFs are bitmap images, which save space by limiting the # of colours - (LZW) lossless compression.
. This limited colour pallet is great for small images with few colours (arrows, bullet points, and other line based art). GIFs also have the unusual ability to store multiple frames, which when opened play back each frame in sequence, making an animated GIF. GIFs can also allocate one of the colours to be transparent. Full colour photos are much richer with millions of colours, instead of 100s, so GIF is not your choice for photographs or for printing.
JPG : (from Joint Photographic Experts Group)
To achieve those rich, full colour photos, that don't take up much space, JPG is your number one choice. JPG allow you to compress your photos, usually at 10:1 compression - lossy-compression - allowing you to fit a very high resolution photo in a small file. Most digital cameras shoot in JPG to save space, for the maximum amount of photos on your digital media card. Images can range from small web graphics to huge poster sized images.
PNG : (Portable Network Graphic)
PNG is an interesting mix between JPG and GIF. A PNG is a bitmapped image, like GIFs, but they use lossless compression to save space. PNGs have the limted colour pallet like a GIF, but their colour pallet can be Millions of colours, instead of the 100s found in GIFs. PNGs can have the beautiful full colour photographic capabilities, and impressive compression, of a JPG - with the added bonus of having a full range of colours that can be used for transparency (opposed to the single color of a GIF.) PNGs, however, are another web based file type, and are not the best for printing.
TIF
A TIF file is generally a print ready bitmapped image file. It can be saved at very high resolutions and can be RGB (for the web) or CMYK (for printers).
Not everyone will have the software to open a TIF file so it is best to save as a nother format if you are just sharing holiday snaps.
EPS
An EPS file is a vector file - instead of small dots, the image is a series of mathmatical formulas that create lines and colours that make up a lineart image. EPS is a fantastic formula for printing because, unlike a bitmapped image, a vector image can be shrunk down or blown up to any size without loosing quality. It is NOT for photographic images, and can also tricky to open without the correct software.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask our resident graphics guy, DavidB@yourplanb.com
GIF : Graphics Interchange Format
(the "G" is hard, like GIFT, not soft like JIFF)
GIFs are bitmap images, which save space by limiting the # of colours - (LZW) lossless compression.
. This limited colour pallet is great for small images with few colours (arrows, bullet points, and other line based art). GIFs also have the unusual ability to store multiple frames, which when opened play back each frame in sequence, making an animated GIF. GIFs can also allocate one of the colours to be transparent. Full colour photos are much richer with millions of colours, instead of 100s, so GIF is not your choice for photographs or for printing.
JPG : (from Joint Photographic Experts Group)
To achieve those rich, full colour photos, that don't take up much space, JPG is your number one choice. JPG allow you to compress your photos, usually at 10:1 compression - lossy-compression - allowing you to fit a very high resolution photo in a small file. Most digital cameras shoot in JPG to save space, for the maximum amount of photos on your digital media card. Images can range from small web graphics to huge poster sized images.
PNG : (Portable Network Graphic)
PNG is an interesting mix between JPG and GIF. A PNG is a bitmapped image, like GIFs, but they use lossless compression to save space. PNGs have the limted colour pallet like a GIF, but their colour pallet can be Millions of colours, instead of the 100s found in GIFs. PNGs can have the beautiful full colour photographic capabilities, and impressive compression, of a JPG - with the added bonus of having a full range of colours that can be used for transparency (opposed to the single color of a GIF.) PNGs, however, are another web based file type, and are not the best for printing.
TIF
A TIF file is generally a print ready bitmapped image file. It can be saved at very high resolutions and can be RGB (for the web) or CMYK (for printers).
Not everyone will have the software to open a TIF file so it is best to save as a nother format if you are just sharing holiday snaps.
EPS
An EPS file is a vector file - instead of small dots, the image is a series of mathmatical formulas that create lines and colours that make up a lineart image. EPS is a fantastic formula for printing because, unlike a bitmapped image, a vector image can be shrunk down or blown up to any size without loosing quality. It is NOT for photographic images, and can also tricky to open without the correct software.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask our resident graphics guy, DavidB@yourplanb.com
Monday, April 26, 2010
what's up with FTP and blogger.com? May 1, 2010 changes!
A reminder about the news about your blogger.com account - Blogger.com is no longer supporting FTP publishing in Blogger after May 1, 2010. Blogger.com realizes that this will not necessarily be welcome news for some users, and they are committed to making the transition as seamless as possible.
For more details please visit: http://blogger-ftp.blogspot.com
What does this means for you?
Well, we need to discuss some options of how you can continue (or not) using blogger.com on your website. If you would like to continue using this tool, then we need to make some changes to how the blog shows up on your site.
Our suggestions are:
OPTION A: stop using the blog, either remove it or use it as an archive
OPTION B: migrate using the blogger.com tool to a yournamehere.blogspot.com
OPTION C: set up a subdomain and migrate the blog there (see blog.yourplanb.com for an example)
OPTION D: convert your site to a CMS solution like Drupal, Joomla or WordPress allowing you to edit all pages through your browser and use the included CMS blog tool (no longer using blogger.com)
And remember, on May 1, 2010 your blog will no longer work as is. So please, let's get a change in place sooner rather than later!
For more details please visit: http://blogger-ftp.blogspot.com
What does this means for you?
Well, we need to discuss some options of how you can continue (or not) using blogger.com on your website. If you would like to continue using this tool, then we need to make some changes to how the blog shows up on your site.
Our suggestions are:
OPTION A: stop using the blog, either remove it or use it as an archive
OPTION B: migrate using the blogger.com tool to a yournamehere.blogspot.com
OPTION C: set up a subdomain and migrate the blog there (see blog.yourplanb.com for an example)
OPTION D: convert your site to a CMS solution like Drupal, Joomla or WordPress allowing you to edit all pages through your browser and use the included CMS blog tool (no longer using blogger.com)
And remember, on May 1, 2010 your blog will no longer work as is. So please, let's get a change in place sooner rather than later!
Monday, April 19, 2010
EARTHDAY is April 22nd!
A few green ideas for you and your company or organization:
Your Plan B Company joins the Earthday celebrations by continuing to work towards lowering the size of our footprint - both personal and corporate. You can too :)
Check out these sites for more information:
earthday.org
earthday.net/earthday2010
epa.gov/earthday
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Day
- receive e-bills instead of mailed bills from vendors and utilities
- turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and take shorter showers
- support local farmers, by shopping at the farmers markets
- change incandescent light bulbs to fluorescent bulbs
- turn the thermostat down by three degrees during the winter/turn the thermostat up by five degrees in the summer
- sweep the carpet each week instead of using the vacuum cleaner
- combine all errands for one day each week
- unplug all charging devices when not in use
- shop with cloth tote bags - give us a call and we can send one over for you! (it is lime green)
Your Plan B Company joins the Earthday celebrations by continuing to work towards lowering the size of our footprint - both personal and corporate. You can too :)
Check out these sites for more information:
earthday.org
earthday.net/earthday2010
epa.gov/earthday
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Day
Monday, April 12, 2010
Couldn't resist passing this article to you from Mashable.com
Our Social Media Obsession by the Numbers
From the time we wake up in the morning to the moment we call it a day, and every moment in between (think bedroom, bathroom and dinner table), we’re checking in on our favorite social media sites.
This conclusion comes from data gathered by an independent study (commissioned by Retrevo), which surveyed 1,000 online individuals.
Per the report, our Facebook and Twitter (Twitter) activities continue even after we’ve hit the hay, with 48% of respondents checking in on activity when they wake up in the middle of the night or as soon as they wake up in the morning. Unsurprisingly, these night owl social media behaviors skew heavily toward those under the age of 25. Continue reading: http://mashable.com/2010/03/17/social-media-usage-stats/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29
From the time we wake up in the morning to the moment we call it a day, and every moment in between (think bedroom, bathroom and dinner table), we’re checking in on our favorite social media sites.
This conclusion comes from data gathered by an independent study (commissioned by Retrevo), which surveyed 1,000 online individuals.
Per the report, our Facebook and Twitter (Twitter) activities continue even after we’ve hit the hay, with 48% of respondents checking in on activity when they wake up in the middle of the night or as soon as they wake up in the morning. Unsurprisingly, these night owl social media behaviors skew heavily toward those under the age of 25. Continue reading: http://mashable.com/2010/03/17/social-media-usage-stats/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29
Monday, April 5, 2010
What is Google Buzz?
Go beyond status messages
Share updates, photos, videos, and more.
Start conversations about the things you find interesting.
http://www.google.com/buzz
(you can watch a video about what this new tool is all about)
So what exactly is Google Buzz? It is a tool you use on your desktop PC or mobile, Buzz makes us think of an RSS combined with all of your social networking—all within the existing Gmail and Google.com infrastructure and (good/bad) security wall.
On Tuesday, February 9th, Google launched Buzz for Gmail, a service for sharing thoughts, multimedia, and your social media feeds with your friends utilizing Gmail (Gmail) as the conduit. The result: over 160,000 Google Buzz posts and comments per hour.
Buzz is an open platform, meaning that developers will soon be able to create new apps for Buzz — everything from iPhone apps to analytical services will be built on top of it.
Buzz's five key features include:
• Automatic friends lists (friends are added automatically who you have emailed on Gmail)
• "Rich fast sharing" combines sources like Picasa and Twitter into a single feed, and it includes full-sized photo browsing
• Public and private sharing (swap between family and friends)
• Inbox integration (instead of emailing you with updates, like Facebook might, Buzz features emails that update dynamically with all Buzz thread content, like the photo viewer we mentioned above)
• "Recommended Buzz" puts friend-of-friend content into your stream, even if you're not acquainted. Recommendations learn over time with your feedback.
Read more at Wikipedia...
And check out GeekSystem...
Stay up to date with Google news, by reading their blog.
The question is, do YOU need Google Buzz if you are already on Facebook, Twitter and Blogger.com?
Should you continue your social marketing reach on this new tool for your company or organization?
Reviews are mixed.
According to Mashable.com (The Social Media Guide) "The social media landscape has been permanently altered. To ignore Buzz would be a costly mistake, because Google has finally created the definition of a game-changer." So they feel we need to be using this new tool.
PCWorld.com asks "How big is the potential market for Buzz? In theory, at least as big as the total number of Gmail users, I guess." Again, that is a big pool of users, but do you want to jump in?
Your users already have a what feels like hundreds of ways to share content with their friends: Facebook and Twitter are two popular choices. Blogging is another. E-mailing text and images to friends is still very popular. We are not seeing how Buzz will add positively to those choices, but then again, past Google tools have been wonderful!
YourPlanB.com will continue to monitor and test this new cool toy from Google. We will keep you posted on our opinions. If you have any questions about social marketing and your marketing plan, give us a call!
Share updates, photos, videos, and more.
Start conversations about the things you find interesting.
http://www.google.com/buzz
(you can watch a video about what this new tool is all about)
So what exactly is Google Buzz? It is a tool you use on your desktop PC or mobile, Buzz makes us think of an RSS combined with all of your social networking—all within the existing Gmail and Google.com infrastructure and (good/bad) security wall.
On Tuesday, February 9th, Google launched Buzz for Gmail, a service for sharing thoughts, multimedia, and your social media feeds with your friends utilizing Gmail (Gmail) as the conduit. The result: over 160,000 Google Buzz posts and comments per hour.
Buzz is an open platform, meaning that developers will soon be able to create new apps for Buzz — everything from iPhone apps to analytical services will be built on top of it.
Buzz's five key features include:
• Automatic friends lists (friends are added automatically who you have emailed on Gmail)
• "Rich fast sharing" combines sources like Picasa and Twitter into a single feed, and it includes full-sized photo browsing
• Public and private sharing (swap between family and friends)
• Inbox integration (instead of emailing you with updates, like Facebook might, Buzz features emails that update dynamically with all Buzz thread content, like the photo viewer we mentioned above)
• "Recommended Buzz" puts friend-of-friend content into your stream, even if you're not acquainted. Recommendations learn over time with your feedback.
Read more at Wikipedia...
And check out GeekSystem...
Stay up to date with Google news, by reading their blog.
The question is, do YOU need Google Buzz if you are already on Facebook, Twitter and Blogger.com?
Should you continue your social marketing reach on this new tool for your company or organization?
Reviews are mixed.
According to Mashable.com (The Social Media Guide) "The social media landscape has been permanently altered. To ignore Buzz would be a costly mistake, because Google has finally created the definition of a game-changer." So they feel we need to be using this new tool.
PCWorld.com asks "How big is the potential market for Buzz? In theory, at least as big as the total number of Gmail users, I guess." Again, that is a big pool of users, but do you want to jump in?
Your users already have a what feels like hundreds of ways to share content with their friends: Facebook and Twitter are two popular choices. Blogging is another. E-mailing text and images to friends is still very popular. We are not seeing how Buzz will add positively to those choices, but then again, past Google tools have been wonderful!
YourPlanB.com will continue to monitor and test this new cool toy from Google. We will keep you posted on our opinions. If you have any questions about social marketing and your marketing plan, give us a call!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Email options from POP to IMAP to webmail
There are many ways to get your email, from POP accounts with your cable provider to free email through your favorite browser. Let me explain some of the glossary terms first, then I offer links to Best of the Web 2010 (courtesy of about.com), services and software options.
Post Office Protocol (POP):
is an application-layer Internet standard protocol used by local e-mail clients to retrieve e-mail from a remote server over a TCP/IP connection. POP and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) are the two most prevalent Internet standard protocols for e-mail retrieval. Virtually all modern e-mail clients and servers support both. The POP protocol has been developed through several versions, with version 3 (POP3) being the current standard. (thanks wikipedia)
Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP):
is one of the two most prevalent Internet standard protocols for e-mail retrieval, the other being the Post Office Protocol (POP). Virtually all modern e-mail clients and mail servers support both protocols as a means of transferring e-mail messages from a server. (thanks wikipedia)
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP):
is an Internet standard for electronic mail (e-mail) transmission across Internet Protocol (IP) networks. SMTP was first defined in RFC 821 (STD 15), and last updated by RFC 5321 (2008) which includes the extended SMTP (ESMTP) additions, and is the protocol in widespread use today. SMTP is specified for outgoing mail transport and uses TCP port 25. (thanks wikipedia)
E-mail client:
is a computer program used to manage email. Specifically, the term email client may refer to any agent acting as a client toward an email server, regardless of it being a mail user agent, a relaying server, or a human typing on a terminal. In addition, a web application providing message management, composition, and reception functionality is sometimes considered an email client. (thanks wikipedia)
The Complete List of Reader's Choice Awards 2010 Winners for About: Macs
Numer One:
Apple Mail
The Runners-Up:
Thunderbird 3.0 - 9%
Mailsmith 2.2 - 4%
Entourage 2008 - 3%
Eudora Pro 6.2 - 2%
The Best in Email 2010 - The Reader's Choice Awards
Mozilla Thunderbird — 54.82%
Outlook — 28.43%
IncrediMail — 9.64%
eM Client — 4.57%
Pegasus Mail — 2.54%
Webmail:
is an e-mail service intended to be primarily accessed via a web browser, as opposed to through a desktop e-mail client (such as Microsoft Outlook, Pegasus Mail, Mozilla's Thunderbird, or Apple Inc.'s Mail). Very popular webmail providers include Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Hotmail, and AOL. (thanks wikipedia)
Best free email services 2010 Readers Choice Awards
Gmail — 45.50%
GMX Mail — 20.87%
Yahoo! Mail — 18.875
Windows Live Hotmail — 7.94%
Zoho Mail — 6.83%
In our office Thunderbird rules for our email client and Gmail is our most used webmail option on both the Windows machines and our Mac.
Post Office Protocol (POP):
is an application-layer Internet standard protocol used by local e-mail clients to retrieve e-mail from a remote server over a TCP/IP connection. POP and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) are the two most prevalent Internet standard protocols for e-mail retrieval. Virtually all modern e-mail clients and servers support both. The POP protocol has been developed through several versions, with version 3 (POP3) being the current standard. (thanks wikipedia)
Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP):
is one of the two most prevalent Internet standard protocols for e-mail retrieval, the other being the Post Office Protocol (POP). Virtually all modern e-mail clients and mail servers support both protocols as a means of transferring e-mail messages from a server. (thanks wikipedia)
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP):
is an Internet standard for electronic mail (e-mail) transmission across Internet Protocol (IP) networks. SMTP was first defined in RFC 821 (STD 15), and last updated by RFC 5321 (2008) which includes the extended SMTP (ESMTP) additions, and is the protocol in widespread use today. SMTP is specified for outgoing mail transport and uses TCP port 25. (thanks wikipedia)
E-mail client:
is a computer program used to manage email. Specifically, the term email client may refer to any agent acting as a client toward an email server, regardless of it being a mail user agent, a relaying server, or a human typing on a terminal. In addition, a web application providing message management, composition, and reception functionality is sometimes considered an email client. (thanks wikipedia)
The Complete List of Reader's Choice Awards 2010 Winners for About: Macs
Numer One:
Apple Mail
The Runners-Up:
Thunderbird 3.0 - 9%
Mailsmith 2.2 - 4%
Entourage 2008 - 3%
Eudora Pro 6.2 - 2%
The Best in Email 2010 - The Reader's Choice Awards
Mozilla Thunderbird — 54.82%
Outlook — 28.43%
IncrediMail — 9.64%
eM Client — 4.57%
Pegasus Mail — 2.54%
Webmail:
is an e-mail service intended to be primarily accessed via a web browser, as opposed to through a desktop e-mail client (such as Microsoft Outlook, Pegasus Mail, Mozilla's Thunderbird, or Apple Inc.'s Mail). Very popular webmail providers include Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Hotmail, and AOL. (thanks wikipedia)
Best free email services 2010 Readers Choice Awards
Gmail — 45.50%
GMX Mail — 20.87%
Yahoo! Mail — 18.875
Windows Live Hotmail — 7.94%
Zoho Mail — 6.83%
In our office Thunderbird rules for our email client and Gmail is our most used webmail option on both the Windows machines and our Mac.
Monday, March 22, 2010
SPRING - think green (some ideas to make your office more green)
As spring begins to make an appearance, we can't help but begin to rethink how our office can be more green. Now granted, we use green as our company color, but there are others ways to go green too!
1. ceramic coffee mugs: not only show off your company's logo, but also reduces the use of styrofoam and wax/paper cups
2. dry erase mini boards vs. post it notes: another chance to lesson the paper at your desk but still feel the sense of accomplishment as you check completed tasks off of your to-do list.
3. eco friendly office supplies: like recycled folders, paper, pencil, pens with paper barrels
4. digital frame: don't print those show and tell photos, instead put them on a digital frame. they come in sizes as small as a keychain or 8X11 for at your desk.
5. stainless steel water bottles: another way to illiminate styrofoam or paper/wax cups
6. telecommute: use internet or conference calls more, save yourself the trip! there are many online options like webex.com or freeconference.org
7. walk, bike or take public transportation: try to do this more days than driving into work! Chicago offers some great options, check out transitchicago.com
8. join a car sharing organization: like zipcar.com or igocars.org
9. electronic mailings: we have switched to all client billing and announcements (vs. printing + snail mail) and you can too! constantcontact.com is an easy to use solution! quicken.intuit.com is another option.
10. reuse paper: we only bought one box of paper last year! you can too by printing on the other side and using PDFs more often. createpdf.adobe.com
11. recycle your cell phones: (donate to a good cause!) recyclemycellphone.org or ncadv.org
12. Unplug your cell phone, laptop computer, and other electronic device chargers when your battery is fully charged or when the power cord is not in use. The "power brick" transformers continue to use electricity whenever they are plugged in. More tips here: mwalliance.org/resources/efficiency-tips
Overall our goal is to reduce, reuse, recycle and buy smarter.
And we hope you will join us!
1. ceramic coffee mugs: not only show off your company's logo, but also reduces the use of styrofoam and wax/paper cups
2. dry erase mini boards vs. post it notes: another chance to lesson the paper at your desk but still feel the sense of accomplishment as you check completed tasks off of your to-do list.
3. eco friendly office supplies: like recycled folders, paper, pencil, pens with paper barrels
4. digital frame: don't print those show and tell photos, instead put them on a digital frame. they come in sizes as small as a keychain or 8X11 for at your desk.
5. stainless steel water bottles: another way to illiminate styrofoam or paper/wax cups
6. telecommute: use internet or conference calls more, save yourself the trip! there are many online options like webex.com or freeconference.org
7. walk, bike or take public transportation: try to do this more days than driving into work! Chicago offers some great options, check out transitchicago.com
8. join a car sharing organization: like zipcar.com or igocars.org
9. electronic mailings: we have switched to all client billing and announcements (vs. printing + snail mail) and you can too! constantcontact.com is an easy to use solution! quicken.intuit.com is another option.
10. reuse paper: we only bought one box of paper last year! you can too by printing on the other side and using PDFs more often. createpdf.adobe.com
11. recycle your cell phones: (donate to a good cause!) recyclemycellphone.org or ncadv.org
12. Unplug your cell phone, laptop computer, and other electronic device chargers when your battery is fully charged or when the power cord is not in use. The "power brick" transformers continue to use electricity whenever they are plugged in. More tips here: mwalliance.org/resources/efficiency-tips
Overall our goal is to reduce, reuse, recycle and buy smarter.
And we hope you will join us!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
This blog has moved
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Monday, March 15, 2010
NEW SITE LAUNCH! caregivinghelp.org
"CJE SeniorLife offers you this website caregivinghelp.org as a tool to support the overall caregiving experience. Our goal is to provide caregivers with educational materials and resources that are applicable to many different caregiving situations. In order to help caregivers maximize the quality of care they can offer while also minimizing the risk of "caregiver burnout," we have shared our expertise in dealing with the older adult population and designed our web pages around the most challenging aspects of caregiving. We anticipate that you and your loved one will benefit from your experience with this website."
What a wonderful working experience with the team at CJE!!
Our team enjoyed creating this new version of the caregivinghelp.org website AND we have learned so much! If you or someone you know is a caregiver for a friend or family member, send them this site for more support. Everything from how to lift + transfer someone to remembering to take care of yourself too!
Your Plan B Company is proud to announce the launch of our latest project with the CJE.
And we are so happy to know, that because this is a Drupal website, that the CJE team will be able to grow the site content on their own at their own pace. Which, in the end, will help all of us!
What a wonderful working experience with the team at CJE!!
Our team enjoyed creating this new version of the caregivinghelp.org website AND we have learned so much! If you or someone you know is a caregiver for a friend or family member, send them this site for more support. Everything from how to lift + transfer someone to remembering to take care of yourself too!
Your Plan B Company is proud to announce the launch of our latest project with the CJE.
And we are so happy to know, that because this is a Drupal website, that the CJE team will be able to grow the site content on their own at their own pace. Which, in the end, will help all of us!
Monday, March 8, 2010
CONGRATS! to Kathleen Ameche (womanroadwarrior.com)!
Announcing the Local Nation Contest Winners!
The "Local Nation" contest received amazing entries from road trippers who speak their mind, share local knowledge and want to represent you, their fellow traveler, on Women on Their Way's newly formed "Local Nation" sounding board.
Our fabulous client, Kathleen Ameche (womanroadwarrior.com) is one of the 10 winners of the Wyndham Local Nation contest for 2010!
We want to congratulate her! And thank everyone who helped by voting for her online!
Check it out here: womenontheirway.com/local-nation
Monday, March 1, 2010
What is a content management system (CMS)?
A content management system (CMS) is software that keeps track of every piece of content on your website, much like your local public library keeps track of books and stores them. Content can be simple text, photos, music, video, documents, or just about anything you can think of. A major advantage of using a CMS is that it requires almost no technical skill or knowledge to manage and edit. Since the CMS manages all your content, you don't have to.
It allows for easy, browser based editing to web content. Allowing you to keep your website current faster and from anywhere. No need to open FTP, Dreamweaver etc. Just browse to your site and log in!
Check out some of our CMS sites:
kruzinusa.com (Drupal)
latebarchicago.com (Joomla)
mwalliance.org (Drupal)
spatulatta.com (Joomla)
and there are more in the works but have not launched yet!
Give us a call 773-665-2552 to convert your site over to a CMS so you can manage your content updates easily!
It allows for easy, browser based editing to web content. Allowing you to keep your website current faster and from anywhere. No need to open FTP, Dreamweaver etc. Just browse to your site and log in!
Check out some of our CMS sites:
kruzinusa.com (Drupal)
latebarchicago.com (Joomla)
mwalliance.org (Drupal)
spatulatta.com (Joomla)
and there are more in the works but have not launched yet!
Give us a call 773-665-2552 to convert your site over to a CMS so you can manage your content updates easily!
Monday, February 22, 2010
need an awesome and FREE tool to unzip/zip files?
Try 7-Zip
It is very easy to use and saves us some time with the drag and drop option.
What is 7-Zip?
It is an open source Windows utility for manipulating archives.
Formats 7z, ZIP, GZIP, BZIP2 and TAR are supported fully, other formats can be unpacked.
7-Zip works in Windows 7 / Vista / XP / 2008 / 2003 / 2000 / NT / ME / 98.
There is a port of the command line version to Linux/Unix.
See this comparison chart of other software options: http://www.7zip.com
A little zip history:
Zip was originally developed by Phil Katz for the software utility called PkZip also developed by him. The Zip file type has developed a lot over the years and is different than the one originated in late 90s. Zip has become so popular that practically every archive utility has to support it. It is also supported over multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac OS and Linux.
Zip is the only archive file type that became so popular as to have its uncompress feature included in Windows. Windows machines installed out of the box can open Zip archives and extract files from Zip archives.
Read more....
It is very easy to use and saves us some time with the drag and drop option.
What is 7-Zip?
It is an open source Windows utility for manipulating archives.
Formats 7z, ZIP, GZIP, BZIP2 and TAR are supported fully, other formats can be unpacked.
7-Zip works in Windows 7 / Vista / XP / 2008 / 2003 / 2000 / NT / ME / 98.
There is a port of the command line version to Linux/Unix.
See this comparison chart of other software options: http://www.7zip.com
A little zip history:
Zip was originally developed by Phil Katz for the software utility called PkZip also developed by him. The Zip file type has developed a lot over the years and is different than the one originated in late 90s. Zip has become so popular that practically every archive utility has to support it. It is also supported over multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac OS and Linux.
Zip is the only archive file type that became so popular as to have its uncompress feature included in Windows. Windows machines installed out of the box can open Zip archives and extract files from Zip archives.
Read more....
Monday, February 15, 2010
no more IE 6.0 please!
For years we web designers have been upset with Internet Explorer, especially version 6. Please, we beg of you, upgrade! It is easy, really! And hey - IE8 is available now! If you can, try Firefox - we bet you will love it even more!
Here are some articles to help nudge you to change your browser (and make your web designers happier):
1. mashable.com/2010/01/18/5-more-reasons-why-ie6-must-die/
2. davidwalsh.name/6-reasons-why-ie6-must-die
3. wisdump.com/web-programming/campaigns-to-kill-the-web-browser-that-just-wont-die-internet-explorer-6/
4. blogs.technet.com/srd/archive/2010/01/15/assessing-risk-of-ie-0day-vulnerability.aspx
5. secunia.com/advisories/product/11/
6. mashable.com/2009/07/16/ie6-must-die/
to quote the Mashable article on 01/18/2010:
"...Last week's series of events drove home just how dangerous and idiotic it is to run the long-broken IE6 browser. It should be a wake-up call to IT departments and users around the world: if you keep running a browser from 2001, you are throwing your online security right out the window."
Here are some articles to help nudge you to change your browser (and make your web designers happier):
1. mashable.com/2010/01/18/5-more-reasons-why-ie6-must-die/
2. davidwalsh.name/6-reasons-why-ie6-must-die
3. wisdump.com/web-programming/campaigns-to-kill-the-web-browser-that-just-wont-die-internet-explorer-6/
4. blogs.technet.com/srd/archive/2010/01/15/assessing-risk-of-ie-0day-vulnerability.aspx
5. secunia.com/advisories/product/11/
6. mashable.com/2009/07/16/ie6-must-die/
to quote the Mashable article on 01/18/2010:
"...Last week's series of events drove home just how dangerous and idiotic it is to run the long-broken IE6 browser. It should be a wake-up call to IT departments and users around the world: if you keep running a browser from 2001, you are throwing your online security right out the window."
Monday, February 8, 2010
the cuteness strikes back!
In April 2009, the Shiba Inu Puppy Cam was nominated for The 13th Annual Webby Awards in the Viral category, and was the People’s Voice Award winner! And we know you were one of the three million viewers had spent 1.2 million hours watching the puppies via the Internet.
Well guess what! New Shiba Inu pups (3 boys and 2 girls) were born on Saturday, January 16th, 2010. This is the second litter by their mom, Kika. And yes, the puppycam is up and ready for you to delay that spreadsheet, email, meeting notes, website edit etc. Welcome to the YPBCo office favorite distraction!
Read more about them if you want to here, or just click and watch now! And if you want to join in the conversation, visit puppycam.yuku.com
And a note to Mr+Mrs SFShiba - thanks for sharing :)
Monday, February 1, 2010
YPBCo MEMBER PROFILE: Jamey Brumfield, President and Creative Director
(Caption: JameyB with her Dad and racetrack 1978)
JameyB is creative not only with organizing projects and people, but with a pencil (paintbrush, crayon, charcoal) too! Everyday she draws something new. AND she has an ongoing cartoon for employees on their dry erase boards (ask about the adventures of Batpig). There is even a rumor she was enlisted to draw characters for an electronic coloring book coming your way via your iphone in the not-so-far-away future.
"Creativity is a mental and social process involving the generation of new ideas or concepts, or new associations of the creative mind between existing ideas or concepts. (thanks wikipedia)" And JameyB does just that and more! She is in the process of creating an online portfolio of her non-web work at SpookyInc.com.
Your Plan B Company is proud of our team, our artists. Each one of our team members exercises their creativity not only in the office but outside of it as well. We believe it is essential to problem solving, design and development. You can see more of JameyB's creativity through the YPBCo client portfolio, as well as in her sketch books and at her (coming soon!) online art-spot, SpookyInc.com. In addition to art, in her free time JameyB enjoys her post as the President of the Beloit College Alumni Association, bringing creativity to the board room! (Colorful dry erase pens in hand!)
P.S. This February 2 celebrates her 40th birthday!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMEYB :)
Monday, January 25, 2010
HAPPY 13th ANNIVERSARY TO YOUR PLAN B COMPANY
Another year has whipped by! And wow was it fun!
Thanks to the ALA for giving us the 2009 American Library Associaton | Great Web Sites for Kids (for our work on spatulatta.com)
Our party was definitely another one of the highlights and we promise to have another one soon.
Great new projects!
spatulatta.com conversion to Joomla!
holidayclubchicago.com launch!
otrassn.org remodel to Joomla!
kruzinusa.com launch!
mwalliance.org conversion to Drupal!
latebarchicago.com launch!
And a cool project with CVS/Caremark!
And awesome continued work with GREAT clients :)
WomanRoadWarrior.com, MicciMicci.com, TheChicagoBuzz.com, LakeviewBaseballClub.com, MotorBrains.com, RosensteinPropertyLaw.com, SRosenstein.com, Tresser.com, UIC-CFDC.org, Wielgus.com, Icre-Roosevelt.org, EventatWestEgg.com, FieldofGreens.biz, GreensbyWhite.com, RonaldKnox.org, ChicagoHistory.org and more!
We look forward to what 2010 has in store for us. And are so pleased to say we have been in business 13 years now. Imagine way back in 1997 when the web was only dial up and backgrounds were only grey... to where we are today with open source CMS, CSS, Flash animation, videos, podcasts, social networking and so much more! Not to mention easy to use web stats (thanks google!).
As always, no project is too big or too small thanks to the hardworking peers in our network. If DavidB, Cat and I can't do it, believe me, we know someone who can! Give us a call or send an email with your next web project RFP - 773-665-2552 or jameyb@yourplanb.com
and THANK YOU!
Thanks to the ALA for giving us the 2009 American Library Associaton | Great Web Sites for Kids (for our work on spatulatta.com)
Our party was definitely another one of the highlights and we promise to have another one soon.
Great new projects!
spatulatta.com conversion to Joomla!
holidayclubchicago.com launch!
otrassn.org remodel to Joomla!
kruzinusa.com launch!
mwalliance.org conversion to Drupal!
latebarchicago.com launch!
And a cool project with CVS/Caremark!
And awesome continued work with GREAT clients :)
WomanRoadWarrior.com, MicciMicci.com, TheChicagoBuzz.com, LakeviewBaseballClub.com, MotorBrains.com, RosensteinPropertyLaw.com, SRosenstein.com, Tresser.com, UIC-CFDC.org, Wielgus.com, Icre-Roosevelt.org, EventatWestEgg.com, FieldofGreens.biz, GreensbyWhite.com, RonaldKnox.org, ChicagoHistory.org and more!
We look forward to what 2010 has in store for us. And are so pleased to say we have been in business 13 years now. Imagine way back in 1997 when the web was only dial up and backgrounds were only grey... to where we are today with open source CMS, CSS, Flash animation, videos, podcasts, social networking and so much more! Not to mention easy to use web stats (thanks google!).
As always, no project is too big or too small thanks to the hardworking peers in our network. If DavidB, Cat and I can't do it, believe me, we know someone who can! Give us a call or send an email with your next web project RFP - 773-665-2552 or jameyb@yourplanb.com
and THANK YOU!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Women on their Way Contest
Heads up - Your Plan B Company would like to ask you all to support our client, Kathy Ameche (womanroadwarrior.com and miccimicci.com) in this cool contest!
"The "Local Nation" contest received amazing entries from road trippers who speak their mind, share local knowledge and want to represent you, their fellow traveler, on Women on Their Way's newly formed "Local Nation" sounding board. YOU can be the judge! Entries are in and now here's the fun part - voting for your favorite!!"
Vote for Kathy here!
Read more about the contest here!
Thanks so much!
"The "Local Nation" contest received amazing entries from road trippers who speak their mind, share local knowledge and want to represent you, their fellow traveler, on Women on Their Way's newly formed "Local Nation" sounding board. YOU can be the judge! Entries are in and now here's the fun part - voting for your favorite!!"
Vote for Kathy here!
Read more about the contest here!
Thanks so much!
Monday, January 11, 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Time to refresh?
Remodeling an existing site needs to be approached in a similar way to the initial build out with solid pre-production meetings, research and review your visitor stats to make sure the next gen site meets your goals and can stand on its own for the next 3-5 years. Sometimes the remodel is just a facelift while others scrap everything and start over.
Let's discuss what is the best plan for your current website.
Take a look at some successful remodel projects:
mwalliance.org
ronaldknox.org
otrassn.org
Give us a call 773-665-2552 to discuss your website remodel needs.
Let's discuss what is the best plan for your current website.
Take a look at some successful remodel projects:
mwalliance.org
ronaldknox.org
otrassn.org
Give us a call 773-665-2552 to discuss your website remodel needs.
Monday, January 4, 2010
2010 Online marketing plan
Despite what the calendar says, it isn't too early to start detailing your 2010 online marketing plan!
Consider important dates you need your site to be current. Or what about adding new social networking options? Sending out enewsletters - make sure all your communications are coordinated.
Now this online marketing plan doesn't have to be written in stone. We all know these types of due dates should be written in pencil so marketing yourself doesn't interrupt your work for your clients. BUT... it is good to have a plan, even if it is monthly reminders to keep things going. Otherwise you could end up at a prime marketing moment and not have all your ducks in a row.
We use Google Calendar as our marketing reminder tool. You can set up a calendar that just you or your team can see. Set up email reminders a few weeks before you need to finish something to help nudge your task list. You can use the existing major holidays calendar, add in your special events/conference/vacations.
And then add in when you are going to update things like: website, send enewsletter, facebook group postings, linked in profile updates or referrals, tweets, blogs etc. This will help organize your online marketing and keep your information current and moving forward to your prospective clients. Let Google be your trusty assistant. It takes a little time to set up and create the reminders now, but in June 2010 you will be happy you did :)
And let Your Plan B Company help update your website, enewsletters, social networks or print pieces to market your company or organization! We can even create or consult on your online marketing plan. Call 773-665-2552
Consider important dates you need your site to be current. Or what about adding new social networking options? Sending out enewsletters - make sure all your communications are coordinated.
Now this online marketing plan doesn't have to be written in stone. We all know these types of due dates should be written in pencil so marketing yourself doesn't interrupt your work for your clients. BUT... it is good to have a plan, even if it is monthly reminders to keep things going. Otherwise you could end up at a prime marketing moment and not have all your ducks in a row.
We use Google Calendar as our marketing reminder tool. You can set up a calendar that just you or your team can see. Set up email reminders a few weeks before you need to finish something to help nudge your task list. You can use the existing major holidays calendar, add in your special events/conference/vacations.
And then add in when you are going to update things like: website, send enewsletter, facebook group postings, linked in profile updates or referrals, tweets, blogs etc. This will help organize your online marketing and keep your information current and moving forward to your prospective clients. Let Google be your trusty assistant. It takes a little time to set up and create the reminders now, but in June 2010 you will be happy you did :)
And let Your Plan B Company help update your website, enewsletters, social networks or print pieces to market your company or organization! We can even create or consult on your online marketing plan. Call 773-665-2552
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