Rise of the INFOGRAPHICS

How cool are these things?  I see them online, in catalogs and on social media.  They have gained massive popularity.  An Infographic is a graphic designed to visualize content.  It adds pictures, graphics and text to show relationships and describe an idea.


But how easy are they to make?  You do not need to be a graphic designer to create one.  You need an idea and content.  There are many easy to use websites with templates that make this very easy to create.  Just search "make a free infographic".


Tips for creating an info graphic:
- Simple
- Creative Packing a Punch
- Minimal Text and High Impact
- Easily Sharable


Read more about the tips visit: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jonathan-long/why-your-business-should-_b_4192309.html


Check out the ag census infographics: http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Partners/Infographics/

Bitcoins - I don't get it

I have heard a lot about Bitcoins recently and I still don't get it.  Bitcoins are digital currency with no physical existence.  They only exist as a digital code on the internet. They were created in 2009 but received a spike last year in value from less than $20 in January of 2013 to $266.  So what is it?  A Bitcoin is a form of money built on the internet and not controlled by any person, group, company or government.  The currency can be transferred directly from one entity to another directly with no fees.  All reports say that Bitcoins will not be going away and only gain popularity in the marketplace.  Definitely something to keep an eye on.

"Boost"

Wonder why you have had more spam on your news feeds?  FaceBook "boost" may be to blame.  Businesses can now pay to have a posting reach more of an audience.  There are no ad tools and owners pay a flat rate depending on how many users they want to reach.  It is fairly inexpensive and users have reported good results - mostly additional likes which increases your reach. 

Suffering from DBS

You may feel like this as well.  The weather has been cold and wet and the days are short.  I have diagnosed myself with DBS - Distracted Blogging Syndrome.  Other times of the year I can sit down to the computer and be inspired.  Now I stare at the blank page which leads me to this post.  I am anxiously waiting for longer days and any sign of spring.  I wonder if any of you are feeling the same.

Happy New Year!

2014 is here! January starts out with such great intentions.  The usual, eating better and exercise is at the top of my list.  I also am searching for ways to make life easier but to also unplug.  I admit my screen time is much more than it should be.  But how do we shut off something that we rely so much on!!  I plan to schedule tech time and disable some of my notifications.  Here is a great article with other ideas. http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2013/12/19/How-Unplug-Little-2014

Christmas is Techie Time

You probably like me always end up in the electronics store or section this time of year.  Interestingly online stores are creating great ways for us to shop and get gift ideas.  One of the online stores I visited this year has created a great system for browsing.  Check out their online "store" http://www.amazon.com/Electronics-Gift-Guide/b?ie=UTF8&node=7258612011.  This creates a great experience for those of us shopping online this year.  I know I purchase more gifts than ever online - what about you?

Black Friday Technology

By now I am sure you have received a ton of emails, mailers and even coupon texts about Black Friday deals.  While I do participate in Black Friday events I do think things may have spiraled out of control.  Check out this article about unstaffed digital stores and other innovative shopping trends http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/innovations/wp/2013/11/27/black-friday-will-never-be-the-same-heres-how-technology-is-changing-shopping/

A direct quote is "We’re still in the early stages of technology changing retail. We’ve seen online retailers such as Amazon chip away at traditional retailers, but the use of smartphones to enhance in-person and online purchasing is just beginning."