Our chirps: 140 characters and beyond
While exciting baking recipes will not form a part of this blog's repertoire and writing might not become my forte, I frequently come across a variety of situations which have driven me to writing about them.
Although a faint touch of realism tells me that most of those who should read my posts probably won't, I intend to keep at it - even if it’s only for the sake of the website’s ranking on Google almighty...
Your homepages, structures, words and your golden users
By Vicka Petrishko | 27 July 2010
I have recently had a couple of discussions with clients regarding what should and shouldn't be on a website's homepage. Yes, I have read the bible of web usability, "Don't Make Me Think", as well as several other resources on effective homepage design. However, while busy building website number 25 (or so) I was still puzzled by the contradicting verdicts on what right and what's wrong.
Some say it has to be as short as possible and not exceed the height of the screen - preventing the necessity to scroll. Some say it should be plastered with the most important stuff you'd like the user to see. So, what's the answer?!
Read more: Your homepages, structures, words and your golden users
“I don’t have time to update my website.”
By Vicka Petrishko | 26 July 2010
So, you have spent all this time, effort and money on a brand new website. The process of adding your name to the World Wide Web was all too exciting and you are happy with the end result. Now you are going to sit and proudly watch it, like a trophy, assuming that other people will do the same. Uhm... what was it that they said about assumption again?
The reality is that much like a plant without water, a static website without updates will “die” and no one will find your name on this wonderful World Wide Web.
Yet another article on the ancient subject of "you get what you pay for"
By Vicka Petrishko | 6 May 2010
I don't believe in reducing the price of a quotation if I'm told that it's too high. Why? Because I choose my service providers according to the quality of service they provide and not according to price. Why? Because I'm not - and will never be - wealthy enough to pay twice for a half-hearted job.
I'm telling you, I can get a logo and a website for R2500!
Of course you can and if you like, I will be kind enough to send you the links to the appropriate service providers. Why? Because they are not in the same league and will not deliver the desired results.
Read more: Yet another article on the ancient subject of "you get what you pay for"
Launch or improve your business workshop: 14 August & 6 November 2010
Not sure of where to start or what your entrepreneurial potential is? Intimidated by the process of going-it-alone?
Whether you are an experienced high-flying professional working for someone, an independent contractor working under the umbrella of an organisation, an existing business owner with a floundering business, or somewhere in between all of these, are any of these questions running though your mind?
- Where do I start?
- Should I work alone or seek out a business partner?
- If I am more suited to a partnership, what personality-type is best suited to me?
- Where should I be heading; how do I set goals?
- Have I got what it takes and what if I fail?
- How do I market myself?
- How do I get a website if I don't know anything about the web?
- How do I choose the right design company to use?
- How do I create a company image?
- Will I be able to manage staff?
Read more: Launch or improve your business workshop: 14 August & 6 November 2010
Starting a business? A few tips on how NOT to hit your head against the wall unnecessarily
By Vicka Petrishko | 6 April 2010
It has been almost two years since I proudly joined the self-employed part of SA's population. With very little capital, no comforting thoughts about my bank balance at month end, few potential clients and a huge urge to be independent, I had little faith in lasting longer than a few months. Sound familiar?
DO NOT PANIC - this is not about to turn into a long soapy recounting every detail of my adventures, but rather a couple of points that you should perhaps ponder if you are considering starting your own business and/or deciding to build a website for it.
Stuff worth thinking about…
We are aware of the fact that it's 2010 and that generation "Y" school kids can also build websites. We also know that anyone can open MS Word, add some text and pictures, save as "Web page" and voilà... you have a “website”! But, before you put your brain child to work on the World Wide Web, consider the following:
Just a thought. Use it, don't use it. |
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