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	<title>Creativeoverflow &#187; Articles</title>
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	<description>Design Blog for Anything Creative</description>
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		<title>8 Online Applications to Help with File Management</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/8-online-applications-to-help-with-file-management/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=8-online-applications-to-help-with-file-management</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/8-online-applications-to-help-with-file-management/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Maria Kireeva</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9836</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It would not be a secret to say, that nowadays we are forced to deal with the great amount of files of any kind &#8211; there can be documents, images, photos, multimedia files, etc. The communication and the business processes requires the files to be rapidly shared, edited and created. This means that the point...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It would not be a secret to say, that nowadays we are forced to deal with the great amount of files of any kind &#8211; there can be documents, images, photos, multimedia files, etc.  The communication and the business processes requires the files to be rapidly shared, edited and created. This means that the point factors today regarding the files staff is accessibility from just any part of the world, compatibility, when you can edit or view the files regardless your PC specs and sharing speed. In these circumstances the best way to work with the files is to use online services rather than desktop applications. In this article I’d like to present you the list of online applications (free applications, by the way, as the price always matter) which may help you to manage different type of files without the necessity to deal with installations files and other stuff.  One more thing, this article is off-limits for monsters, which everybody knows about &#8211; Google Docs, JayCut, etc. The point was to find some alternatives for these applications. </p>
<h4>Saving the trees using online document services</h4>
<p>Let’s start with the most demanding thing &#8211; the document management. According to the latest studies more and more people, organizations and companies prefer to move their document workflow to the web rather than to manage them locally. </p>
<h2><a href="http://www.teamlab.com/document-management.aspx">TeamLab Documents</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.teamlab.com/document-management.aspx"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/TeamLab.png" alt="" title="TeamLab" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9839" /></a><br />
In order to use the Documents module of the service you need to create your portal (TeamLab is developed as project management solution, but, for using Google Docs, for example, you need to create an account in Google Services, so, that is not the point). Well, after the portal is created you have an access to the Documents service. TeamLab Documents offers you a standard and so demanded set of editing features, just all the options you accustomed to use while word processing: the possibility to share the link to the document even if the person you share the document with is not assigned in TeamLab portal, the documents versioning, etc.  TeamLab Documents is free of charge and you may work with your files importing them from Google Docs, Zoho y Box.net.  </p>
<h2><a href="http://shutterb.org/">Shutterborg</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://shutterb.org/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Shutterborg-Edit-Documents-Online-for-Free..png" alt="" title="Shutterborg  Edit Documents Online for Free." width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9848" /></a><br />
This free word processor is running directly in your internet browser. Shutterborg offers you the possibility to download the document you need to edit from the hard disc, from the web inserting the link to the file or create a new document. Working with this word processor you also don’t need to install or adjust any sort of application. As with most word processors, it allows you to adjust the text, fond and color. Links and images can be placed within the text. </p>
<h4>Simple life sounds better</h4>
<div style="border-top: 1px dotted #ccc;"></div>
<p>Well, when the work is done and your documentation is well organized the time to your hobby comes. Sometimes we need to cut some audio track you make a ring tone out of it or to edit it with simple effects to make it louder, for example to put it on your mobile phone, etc. As you know, to install and work with the classic Audio Editor may take a lot of time and the process always depends on the specs of your PC.  So, an online audio editor may solve your problems.</p>
<h2><a href="http://advanced.aviary.com/tools/audio-editor">Audio Editor Myna</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://advanced.aviary.com/tools/audio-editor"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Online-Audio-Editor-Myna.png" alt="" title="Online Audio Editor Myna" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9840" /></a><br />
With Myna you can remix your audio tracks, apply effect, record your own voice or perform an auto-correction. Being a web-based application is very capable even for professional use. </p>
<h2><a href="https://www.filelab.com/audio-editor">FileLab Audio Editor</a></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.filelab.com/audio-editor"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/FileLab-Audio-Editor.png" alt="" title="FileLab Audio Editor" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9841" /></a><br />
The usage of this application requires the installation of 10-20kb plugin, which takes several seconds. After the plugin is installed you may load audio track in the program and start using the application. I should say that FileLab Audio Editor is quiet intuitive and even the novice can edit the files without any difficulties. Note, that in order to use the service you need to log in with Google, Facebook o Yahoo account. </p>
<h4>Filming every moment</h4>
<div style="border-top: 1px dotted #ccc;"></div>
<p>Now, when the holidays have passed you surely have a big amount of homemade videos to edit and send the results of your work to friends and family. In this case you may need to use video editing program or application. Let me suggest you a good and intuitive solutions for you.</p>
<h2><a href="https://www.filelab.com/video-editor">FileLab Video Editor</a></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.filelab.com/video-editor"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/FileLab-Video-Editor.png" alt="" title="FileLab Video Editor" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9842" /></a><br />
This online video editor gives a possibility to work with various video formats, to edit your videos with transitions, video effects and even save your videos with the parameters necessary for further sharing. </p>
<h2><a href="http://www.pixorial.com/">Pixorial</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.pixorial.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Pixorial.png" alt="" title="Pixorial" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9843" /></a><br />
Working with Pixorial you may create your own personal online video library. This online video editor permits you to combine videos, ass transitions and titles. After the video is edited and created you may share the video via such social networks as Facebook and Twitter, email it  or order a DVD copy.</p>
<h4>Freeze the moment</h4>
<div style="border-top: 1px dotted #ccc;"></div>
<p>The last type of files, I’d like to highlight in this article, is photos or image files. </p>
<h2>Splashup</h2>
<p><a href="http://splashup.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Splashup.png" alt="" title="Splashup" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9845" /></a><br />
Online application is used to both modify and create images online. Splashup provides users with the interface that makes it quick and simple to modify any image from your computer or the web.  In addition, Splashup allows you to edit images taken directly from the web camera, which differs it from the others applications of this kind.</p>
<h2><a href="http://pixlr.com/">Pixlr</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://pixlr.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Pixlr.png" alt="" title="Pixlr" width="625" height="585" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9844" /></a><br />
Pixlr has a very similar to Photoshop interface, so, this would be quite easy to jump from the desktop application. Pixlr has more refined features when it comes as individual tool, it also includes the magic wand tool.</p>
<p>These tools will not only simplify your life a bit, but help you to keep track of everything as well. </p>
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		<title>10 Ideas to Creatively Use Photography in Interior Design</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/10-ideas-to-creatively-use-photography-in-interior-design/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=10-ideas-to-creatively-use-photography-in-interior-design</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/10-ideas-to-creatively-use-photography-in-interior-design/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Olivia</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Inspiration]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9856</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are two types of interior design trends: those that come and go seasonally, leading to a need for occasional updates, and those that are general concepts that remain &#8220;in,&#8221; no matter what. When you are coming up with a motif for a room, it is always a good idea to have a mix of...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are two types of interior design trends: those that come and go seasonally, leading to a need for occasional updates, and those that are general concepts that remain &#8220;in,&#8221; no matter what. When you are coming up with a motif for a room, it is always a good idea to have a mix of both. The core of your design should be timeless, with those seasonal trends easily replaced or changed when you feel it is time for something different.</p>
<p>One timeless decoration that holds as much sentimental value as it is functional is the photograph. Capturing special moments and loved ones or just scenes of beauty relevant to the photographer, a photograph is a wonderful item to have in your home, whether they are prints from a professional, portraits of family or shots captured by yourself. Here are 10 ways that you can better integrate photos into your home for any purpose.</p>
<h2>1. Mugs and Kitchenware</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-01.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-01" width="637" height="414" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9858" /><br />
I know someone who has an entire set of mugs, one for each member of the family with a picture of them on the front. It sounds a little kitschy, but it is actually a fun way to bring a little personal touch &#8211; and pep &#8211; to your morning beverages. I have also seem mugs that have pictures taken of beautiful scenery, which can be nice to look at when you wake up and are having that first mug of coffee or tea. They are easy to have made, and almost any printing company local or online will have this service for you to take advantage of. Some will even do full wrap around pictures that cover the entire mug, or let you customize them. If you want a cheap way to do this you may want to check out eBay. There are a number of sellers that handle custom mug design for an affordable price, or wholesale.</p>
<h2>2. Fridge Magnets</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-02.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-02" width="533" height="799" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9859" /><br />
Another fun little item for the kitchen, a refrigerator <a href="http://www.smashingshare.com/2010/10/19/market-your-graphic-design-business-with-magnets-and-stickers/">magnet</a> or <a href="http://www.psprint.com/stickers-labels">sticker</a> is an easy way to decorate your kitchen without taking up counter space. It is also highly functional, allowing you to put up items on the refrigerator like bill notices, print newsletters, invitations, list and even children&#8217;s pictures. They are usually cheaper than make then mugs, but offered through the same kind of company. Most will offer you a choice in sizes, but keep in mind that the larger, flat magnets might not hold as well as the other types. That is why having a thicker magnet is always better. </p>
<h2>3. Prints on Clothing</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-03.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-03" width="550" height="413" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9860" /><br />
I would probably stay away from putting a picture of a person on a t-shirt unless there is a specific reason. But other photographs go well on clothing, such as places or objects. I have seen some people take pictures of bands and concerts and use them on the back of hoodies or jackets. But finding a place that will do more than T-shirts can be a little difficult. Ultimately, you want to find a place that offers custom clothing design.</p>
<h2>4. Bedding</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-04.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-04" width="550" height="412" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9861" /><br />
A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that photo bedding equals the same as custom bedding. The latter is quite expensive, costing in the hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars to make. But the former is a unique style of printing that has become much more popular in recent years. You can find throw pillows, sheet sets, blankets, duvet covers and even towels and shower curtains. The pricing it usually between $25 and $200, depending on what it is you order. Try companies like <a href="http://www.fotobed.com/">FotoBed</a> and <a href="http://www.visionbedding.com/">VisionBedding</a>, two well known suppliers in the market.</p>
<h2>5. Calendars</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-05.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-05" width="550" height="290" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9862" /><br />
You don&#8217;t see so many traditional calendars anymore, which is to be expected. Technology has offered us much more efficient and feature heavy options for people who need to keep their time organized. But they are still a great way to decorate, and a nice throwback to the days of old when we would circle important dates with red pens and eagerly count down the days. You can make your own custom calendars using any photographs you like. You can also just print out photo-topped month sheets to hang up that can work just as well. But you will want to have a high-resolution photo printer to get the right effect.</p>
<h2>6. Bags</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-06.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-06" width="550" height="733" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9863" /><br />
Eco-friendly consumers have been using cloth bags for ages to cut down on the waste of paper and plastic while shopping. But you can make custom bags with photos that are more attractive and trendy. These are great to hang around the house when not in use, making it a part of the decor along with a functional item you with use regularly.</p>
<h2>7. Photo Wallpaper</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-07.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-07" width="550" height="464" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9864" /><br />
This is somewhat new, as most options are more like painted murals that come on wallpaper that is adhesive and easy to apply. But several companies have started doing custom photo wallpaper, which is really cool. You can do it on one wall or all around a room, and some have even taken the time to place them on their ceiling. Since they come in black and white or color, the effect can be dramatic and fascinating. A couple of companies that make this wallpaper are <a href="http://www.atomprints.com/photo-wallpaper.html">Atom Prints</a> and <a href="http://www.muralsyourway.com/">Murals Your Way</a>.</p>
<h2>8. Clocks</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-08.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-08" width="550" height="550" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9865" /><br />
Because of digital photo frames it has become much easier to have photo clocks. Able to switch the picture when you like or use a slideshow, phot clocks are a cool way to display photos along with the time. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00377D8DY/ref=asc_df_B00377D8DY1831175?smid=A196E2DFRQ2O6G&#038;tag=hyprod-20&#038;linkCode=asn&#038;creative=395129&#038;creativeASIN=B00377D8DY">Coby</a> has a decent and affordable one that comes in red, white, black or blue. If you would prefer a more traditional frame, you can go for this <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/p/photo-frames-clock-multi-color-16/22480020?cm_mmc=googlepla-_-specialtyproductsb&#038;n-_-q000000633-_-8714302273810&#038;cm_mmca2=pla&#038;ean=8714302273810&#038;r=1">Barnes &#038; Noble</a> 12 photo collage frame with a center clock. Of course, with a simple clock making kit from a craft store you can make a clock out of any photo you like.</p>
<h2>9. Handmade Frames</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-09.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-09" width="550" height="437" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9866" /><br />
An easy way to create a personal touch for any home is by making handmade frames for your photos. Try upcycling to make them nice and environmentally friendly. You can us any materials from old wood to milk cartons. The web is full of instructions.</p>
<h2>10. Collage</h2>
<p><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/photography-in-interior-design-10.jpg" alt="" title="photography-in-interior-design-10" width="550" height="551" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9867" /><br />
Finally, you have one of my favorite methods, which is a photo collage. Taking numerous photos you can cut out the subject and place them on a piece of cardboard, a poster or a tack board.</p>
<h4>Conclusion</h4>
<p>If you are looking for ideas for an interior decorating job, photos can do wonders. What are some of your ideas? Let us know in the comments.</p>
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		<title>20 Tools to Check Your Web Site&#8217;s Performance</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/20-tools-to-check-your-web-sites-performance/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=20-tools-to-check-your-web-sites-performance</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/20-tools-to-check-your-web-sites-performance/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:05:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Anne Ross</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9810</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The crucial factor in the successful performance of the website is its speed. One cannot negate the fact that the internet users are impatient and looking for instant gratification. Thus if your website is not quick loading and dull in performance you are more than certain to lose out on attracting customers, generating leads and...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The crucial factor in the successful performance of the website is its speed. One cannot negate the fact that the internet users are impatient and looking for instant gratification. Thus if your website is not quick loading and dull in performance you are more than certain to lose out on attracting customers, generating leads and marching ahead on the road of success. However, don’t fret as we have assembles top 20 tools which you can use, in order to analyze and evaluate the performance of your website and fix up the required areas. For better results, it is advices to use more than one tool simultaneously.</p>
<h2>1. <a href="https://developers.google.com/pagespeed/">Page Speed Online</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://developers.google.com/pagespeed"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Page-Speed-Online.jpg" alt="" title="Page Speed Online" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9818" /></a><br />
Google’s Page Speed Online — this is an expert solution that you can possibly get to keep a check on the performance of your website. page speed online is basically a web based adaptation of the very famous browser extension of Google Chrome web development and it evaluates the performance of your website under the best practices for web performance, which has been prescribed by Google itself. The web performance best practices by Google consist of a set of rules and criteria need to be met for the optimal front end performance of your website. Page speed online, being a comprehensive tool not only enables you to check the performance, but you also gain a lot of information from this significant tool. Along with that, it also come packed with a report regarding the best practices you can possible use for mobile devices, in order to optimize their performance. </p>
<h2>2. <a href="http://fpt.pingdom.com/">Pingdom Tools</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://fpt.pingdom.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Pingdom-Tools_1328019251107.jpg" alt="" title="Pingdom Tools_1328019251107" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9822" /></a><br />
Pingdom is basically a monitoring service which keeps the tab on a server, a network and the website as well. The website speed testing tool by Pingdom operates online and is available for free and provides you with quality detailed inputs on various aspects like how long does it take each of the objects of the web page, for example images, style sheets and JavaScript libraries etc, to download and also grades the performance of browser caching and related aspects. Another applicable report which Pingdom tools brings to you is reports regarding the page analysis, which offers you information the time it takes your website to load, the page size and other requests. </p>
<h2>3. <a href="https://browsermob.com/free-website-performance-test">Free Website Performance Test</a> (BrowserMob)</h2>
<p><a href="https://browsermob.com/free-website-performance-test"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Free-Website-Performance-Test_1328019264266.jpg" alt="" title="Free Website Performance Test_1328019264266" width="640" height="291" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9823" /></a><br />
BrowserMob is primarily a company dedicated to providing the load testing and monitoring service to the websites and the Free Website Performance Tool by BrowserMob provides you with resourceful information regarding the speed of your web page, which includes load time, the total weight of web page and number of page objects. It gives you a global and comprehensive insight on how the website is performing by sending pings your web page from four different locations. </p>
<h2>4. <a href="http://whichloadsfaster.com/">Which Loads Faster?</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://whichloadsfaster.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Which-loads-faster-_1328019275861.jpg" alt="" title="Which loads faster-_1328019275861" width="640" height="288" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9824" /></a><br />
As the name suggests, this tool gives a comparative analysis of how two websites are performing, when it comes to loading and performance. If you wish to compare the two websites, this is the best tool available for you. With the “Which Loads Faster?” tool, you can easily compare the performance of your website, pitched against the website of your competitor and you get to know which is performing better or worse. As a competitive corporate firm, this is quite an interesting open source tool that you have been provided with. </p>
<h2>5. <a href="http://www.webpagetest.org/">WebPageTest</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.webpagetest.org"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/WebPagetest.jpg" alt="" title="WebPagetest" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9825" /></a><br />
This neat and smart testing tool provides you with the information regarding the rendering speed of your web page in real browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Internet Explorer and also allows you to test the same across various locations round the world. With the advanced settings available in Web Page Tests, it can also ape the common internet connection speeds like DSL and 56 K dial up and also ad blocking, in order to give you the cost in terms of loss of performance due to running ads on your website. </p>
<h2>6. <a href="http://www.websiteoptimization.com/services/analyze/">Web Page Analyzer</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.websiteoptimization.com/services/analyze/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Web-Page-Analyzer.jpg" alt="" title="Web Page Analyzer" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9826" /></a><br />
If you are looking for a tried and tested, old and reliable solution for analyzing the performance of the web pages, Web Page Analyzer if your answer. Its first version was introduced in the year 2003 and provides information on the size of the web pages, various assets and load time along with recommending all the options for improvement. </p>
<h2>7. <a href="http://www.showslow.com/">Show Slow</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.showslow.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Show-Slow.jpg" alt="" title="Show Slow" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9827" /></a><br />
To begin with, you need to register, in order to utilize this web tool. Secondly it is the web based counterpart of an open source application based on the server model and famous by the same name. With the show slow web application, you can publicly add a URL which needs to be monitored and it brings to you the results from three famous testing tools, which are YSlow, Page Speed and dynaTrace. </p>
<h2>8. <a href="http://site-perf.com/">Site-Perf</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://site-perf.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Site-Perf.jpg" alt="" title="Site-Perf" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9828" /></a><br />
This web-based website speed testing tool displays relevant data on page-rendering time, such as total download time, number of connections made and number of requests made. It also has some bonus features such as being able to run the test even if the web page has HTTP authentication (simply supply it with the password to the page) and the ability to simulate different types of Internet connections.</p>
<h2>9. <a href="http://loadimpact.com/">Load Impact</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://loadimpact.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Load-Impact.jpg" alt="" title="Load Impact" width="640" height="288" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9829" /></a><br />
Load impact is another advantageous load testing and performance analyzing tool which gives you the required insights on the ability of your website to handle the traffic it gets. The online web performance evaluation tool is capable enough to demonstrate the graphed data like the load time for users, and requests per second which comes handy in administering the web server and understanding how fast it can handle the requests pertaining to web pages. </p>
<h2>10. <a href="http://www.octagate.com/service/SiteTimer/">OctaGate SiteTimer</a></h2>
<p><a href="http://www.octagate.com/service/SiteTimer/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/OctaGate-SiteTimer.jpg" alt="" title="OctaGate SiteTimer" width="640" height="294" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9830" /></a><br />
This one is one basic, straight to the point online tool. All you got to do is plug in the URL which you wish to test and in return you will get a bar graph which will contain all the information regarding the when the download time begins, ends and the duration. Thus, this online tool quickly shows you the pages which take time to load and hence allows you to optimize each of their performance. </p>
<h4 style="color: #aaa;">The other half of the online performance testing and analysis tools are.</h4>
<div style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #aaa;"></div>
<p></p>
<h3>11. <a href="http://www.gomeznetworks.com/custom/instant_test.html">Web Site Performance Test</a>(Gomez)</h3>
<p>It is real time site performance tool which provides information regarding DNS lookup time and the time it takes to connect. </p>
<h3>12. <a href="http://www.webslug.info/">Webslug</a></h3>
<p>Being on the lines of Which loads faster? tool (refer above) this web based tool again evaluates how two site are performing. </p>
<h3>13. <a href="http://webwait.com/">WebWait</a></h3>
<p>It is an elementary level website speed timer which gives options to prescribe the number of requests to make and set the time interval in between, for example  10 requests in 15 seconds.</p>
<h3>14. <a href="http://rapid.searchmetrics.com/en/seo-tools/site-analysis/website-speed-test,46.html">Website Speed Test</a>(Search metrics)</h3>
<p>It gives you enough inputs on page speed, which also includes predicted times required for loading, for several types of Internet connections.</p>
<h3>15. <a href="http://gtmetrix.com/">GTmetrix</a></h3>
<p>This is an online tool which employs YSlow and PageSpeed to analyzes the front-end performance of the web site, and the information which its provides is very easy to comprehend. </p>
<h3>16. <a href="http://www.webtoolhub.com/tn561353-website-speed-test.aspx">Website Speed Test</a>(WebToolHub)</h3>
<p>This online tool handles the primarily important web site performance providing data such as size of the page, time required for loading, speed for downloading and average speed in an organized tabular format.</p>
<h3>17. <a href="https://www.yottaa.com/web-performance-optimization">Yottaa Site Speed Optimizer</a></h3>
<p>The reports provided by this online tool are pleasing to the eyes. You need to sign up, in order to utilize its features. </p>
<h3>18. <a href="http://zoompf.com/free">Zoompf Free Web Performance Scan</a></h3>
<p>This web based tools run a thorough scan through your web page and assemble data regarding the web performance however, before you start using it, you need to verify the email id. </p>
<h3>19. <a href="http://www.seomastering.com/site-speed-checker.php">Site Speed Checker</a></h3>
<p>With this web based site speed tool with which you can even run tests on 10 URLs simultaneously.</p>
<h3>20. <a href="http://www.selfseo.com/website_speed_test.php">Free Web Site Speed Test</a>(Self SEO)</h3>
<p>Again another effective speed testing tool which allows you to run 10 URLs, all at the same time and check the performance. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Quick Thoughts on Analogue VS Digital (Photoshop&#8217; Achilles Heel)</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/quick-thoughts-on-analogue-vs-digital-photoshop-achilles-heel/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=quick-thoughts-on-analogue-vs-digital-photoshop-achilles-heel</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/quick-thoughts-on-analogue-vs-digital-photoshop-achilles-heel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:34:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Daniel Mackie</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Graphic Design]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9745</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Somethings just shouldn&#8217;t be undone. There shouldn&#8217;t be a possibility of undoing this either. This is Photoshop&#8217; Achilles Heel. According to me that is. Photoshop is brilliant, isn&#8217;t it? How on earth did we all manage before? From an illustrator’s point of view, when Photoshop first arrived on the scene in the middle of the...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Somethings just shouldn&#8217;t be undone. There shouldn&#8217;t be a possibility of undoing this either. This is Photoshop&#8217; Achilles Heel. According to me that is. </p>
<p>Photoshop is brilliant, isn&#8217;t it? How on earth did we all manage before? From an illustrator’s point of view, when Photoshop first arrived on the scene in the middle of the 90s it was a golden opportunity, an image making tool offering seemingly endless possibilities for creating media for <a href="http://www.nextdayflyers.com/">printing services</a>. The future was bright and full of promise. Now, fifteen-odd years later has all that potential been fulfilled? Some might say yes. I however have detected a fundamental flaw. In fairness it is not the fault of the software, but the way we creatives use it.</p>
<p><strong>Can you guess what this Achilles heel is?</strong> To give you a clue, I found it such a colossal spanner in the works that in 2010 I abandoned Photoshop altogether. It was a tough decision, but has been working out great for me. </p>
<h3>The problem</h3>
<p>My problem with Photoshop is this: <strong>multiple undo.</strong> A whole history of being able to undo every decision you have made since you first opened up your document.  What ostensibly seems like an extremely beneficial tool is, in fact, not. The long-term effect is that it makes your <strong>decision-making process sloppy</strong>. You never have to make a solid decision because you never have to stand by it. You can always undo it, redo, then undo it again, and again… And so it goes on.</p>
<h3>My solution</h3>
<p>I choose to use watercolor paint primarily because, unlike working with Photoshop, it is difficult to amend any errors. Anyone who has used watercolor paint will know that if you use a deep wash of cadmium red and then decide you actually wanted it green, then hard luck, you have to start again.  This medium encourages precision; you have to be sure what you want and what you are going to do right from the start.</p>
<p>That’s not to say all is lost for Photoshop as this weakness could be fixed. For instance, Adobe could release two separate versions of the software, one for mice <strong>(with undo)</strong> and one for men <strong>(no undo)</strong>. The Grecian armies used to burn their boats as soon as they arrived to do battle with an enemy, thereby encouraging an attitude of commitment to success – no going back. I believe my creative process has improved as a result of not being able to constantly edit what I’ve done.</p>
<p><strong>What is your thoughts? Should we have an undo button or not?</strong></p>
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		<title>Great Design is more a Play of Emotions Rather than Aesthetics</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/great-design-is-more-a-play-of-emotions-rather-than-aesthetics/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=great-design-is-more-a-play-of-emotions-rather-than-aesthetics</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/great-design-is-more-a-play-of-emotions-rather-than-aesthetics/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:08:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Hazel Raoult</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9733</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Aesthetics is a part and parcel of website designs and there is no shying away from designing aesthetics. All those gradients and contrasts do go a long way in making the website what it is, but website design needs something more, the proverbial ‘x’ factor that can help it stand out – In one word...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Aesthetics is a part and parcel of website designs and there is no shying away from designing aesthetics. All those gradients and contrasts do go a long way in making the website what it is, but website design needs something more, the proverbial ‘x’ factor that can help it stand out – In one word <strong>‘emotions’</strong>. </p>
<p>The design must be able to project emotions. The levels of passion and excitement generated by the website’s design, determines its popularity and efficiency. Emotions are an integral part of our lives, and a number of decisions that we make daily are an outcome of focusing on one particular emotion and ignoring the rest. It is no secret that the human mind remembers only those things that have elicited powerful reactions. So, logic and undisputed fact says that a website should provoke strong reactions, but of course of the positive kind; and for this to happen, designing emotions, is the key.</p>
<p>Now, I know you might be saying to yourself “Emotions are all very well, but what about usability?&#8221; Sit back and think about it for a second. Will you only use a website if it’s usable? Aren’t you looking for something else from a website? As a user, if you experience a measure of happiness while using a particular website, emotions are the key. A website needs to be a joy to use, so much so that a website visitor simply cannot let it go. They want to continue browsing, even after they have got all the information they wanted.</p>
<p><strong>So, creating emotions is the key.</strong></p>
<h2>How do you create emotions?</h2>
<p><a href="http://designblitzsf.com/projects/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/blitz.jpg" alt="" title="blitz" width="640" height="250" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9736" /></a><br />
Don’t be User Interface Design specific when it comes to creating emotions, but what you must be able to do is be user specific. The key to creating emotions lies in understanding the target audience that’s going to use your website. Focus on perception of the design and not just the design elements. You need to identify the typical people who will come to your website, their feelings when they visit the site and how your design can help cheer them up.</p>
<p><em>Now, what is that one emotion that can make or break a website?</em></p>
<p>It is <strong>desire</strong>. <em>So let’s talk about it.</em></p>
<h2>Desire</h2>
<p><a href="http://apple.com"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/desire.jpg" alt="" title="desire" width="640" height="250" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9735" /></a><br />
Your design can create fantastic levels of desire amongst the website visitor. This emotion is an important driving force, especially, if the site is selling products and services. In such cases, the website visitor must be made to desire the products and services on the site. One of the simplest ways of doing this is making use of clear, high resolution images of products that show them in the best possible light. When it comes to encouraging desire through website design, nothing beats the Apple’s page for the <a href="http://www.apple.com/iphone/">iPhone</a> and the <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipad/">iPad</a>. One look at the page and you want to buy the device. </p>
<p>A website only looks desirable if it’s beautiful, accessible, uncluttered, has high levels of visual sharpness, uses an extremely attractive color combo and makes excellent use of negative space. </p>
<h2>It&#8217;s not just Desire that Works Big Time</h2>
<p><a href="http://hereslifeafrica.com/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/desire-works-big-time.jpg" alt="" title="desire-works-big-time" width="640" height="250" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9738" /></a><br />
Desire as an emotion will only work if you are trying to sell something, which most websites usually do. But, what about some of the other websites that are performing a slightly different function, say the website of a <strong>charitable organization</strong>? Well, in specifically this case ‘sympathy’ works wonders. If the website design of a charitable organization elicits sympathy from website visitors, it can be deemed successful. Such websites need to instill a sense of sadness in the visitors, with use of relevant images, which helps them make sales. </p>
<p>At the end of the day, emotion designing is a marketing tactic. It is the art of designing in way such that it encourages legitimate sentiments that ensure better sales. Think of emotions as crucial triggers that encourage the website visitor to take a positive decision regarding the information offered on the website.</p>
<p><em>How do you portray emotion with your websites? Do you make use of simple elements or do you take the wild side approach with colors and images?</em></p>
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		<title>Unusual Color Combinations to Make Website Design Unique and Unconventional</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/unusual-color-combinations-to-make-website-design-unique-and-unconventional/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=unusual-color-combinations-to-make-website-design-unique-and-unconventional</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/unusual-color-combinations-to-make-website-design-unique-and-unconventional/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:16:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jennifer Moline</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Graphic Design]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9720</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Some people like to stay with the traditional color combination&#8217;s when designing a website; however, lots of people prefer to venture away a little bit and go for something more unusual. Often, we don&#8217;t realize just how good a certain color combination looks until we try it. That&#8217;s why tracking new color trends and experimenting...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Some people like to stay with the traditional color combination&#8217;s when designing a website; however, lots of people prefer to venture away a little bit and go for something more unusual.</p>
<p>Often, we don&#8217;t realize just how good a certain color combination looks until we try it. That&#8217;s why tracking new <a href="http://designrfix.com/inspiration/color-trends-2012">color trends</a> and experimenting with your website can be such a good idea &#8211; you may end up with ideas and colors that you never dreamed of using!</p>
<p>Let&#8217;s see what unusual colors can be be used to garner some ravishing effects. </p>
<h3>Green and Purple</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/42645785@N04/4590591525/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/green-purple.jpg" alt="" title="green-purple" width="550" height="411" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9721" /></a><br />
Who would ever have thought that green and purple could look so good when used alongside each other on a website? The secret when using green and purple together is to make sure that the shades are not too contrasting or too dark. A dark purple and very pale green won&#8217;t look great, and dark purple and dark green won&#8217;t look very good either. The best <a href="http://www.chethstudios.net/2011/07/tips-tricks-and-tools-for-planning-your-color-scheme.html">color scheme</a> to use is a warm green with a purple that isn&#8217;t too dark.</p>
<h3>Blue and Yellow</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/57013876@N00/117229470/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/blue-yellow.jpg" alt="" title="blue-yellow" width="550" height="733" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9722" /></a><br />
It&#8217;s very rare that people ever consider using blue and yellow together, but you&#8217;d be surprised at the effect that can be created using them. When designing your website with these colors, you&#8217;ll get the best look if you use mainly blue. Using too much yellow can be far too bright; however, make sure that there&#8217;s enough yellow so that your website doesn&#8217;t seem too blue. You should also ensure that the yellow isn&#8217;t a bright yellow &#8211; choose a paler, warm yellow that doesn&#8217;t stand out every time it&#8217;s used on the website. </p>
<h3>Purple and Yellow</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/15462799@N00/2468928294/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/purple-yellow.jpg" alt="" title="purple-yellow" width="550" height="368" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9723" /></a><br />
This is another great combination using yellow. Again, make sure that neither of the colours are too dark, and definitely make sure that the yellow is not too bright and overpowering. Like the blue and yellow combination, focus mainly on the purple but add yellow to things like the banners, text boxes and borders that you may have on your website. </p>
<h3>Brown and Blue</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34726560@N00/2875002172/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/brown-blue.jpg" alt="" title="brown-blue" width="550" height="505" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9724" /></a><br />
Brown and blue is becoming increasing popular with website designers and people who are decorating their homes. People are realising that blue and brown together creates a beautiful and warm effect that is appealing and inviting. A good color combination on your website can be the difference between people staying and looking around and people leaving and not bothering to come back again. Choose a lighter brown and a light blue for best effects; dark brown and blue may turn out looking muddy.</p>
<h3>Blue and Pink</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7539060@N06/3433468041/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/blue-pink.jpg" alt="" title="blue-pink" width="550" height="550" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9725" /></a><br />
It is a common idea that blue is for boys and pink is for girls, but when the two are combined, you can often get a very nice color combination. A nice pale blue and a pale pink can be used together on a website to create a beautiful and colorful look. You can even the two colors out, so you don&#8217;t have to focus on one of the colors more than the other. </p>
<h3>Peach and Green</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7228825@N05/1109321864/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/peach-green.jpg" alt="" title="peach-green" width="550" height="649" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9726" /></a><br />
For years, people have thought that green and red or green and pink just don&#8217;t go together at all. However, is there a more unusual but pretty color combination than a lovely light green and peach? Avoid using a dark green alongside peach as that will discourage people from coming to your website and isn&#8217;t very appealing to the eye.</p>
<h3>Orange and Green</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34726560@N00/5548510944/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/orange-green.jpg" alt="" title="orange-green" width="550" height="400" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9727" /></a><br />
If you tried persuading somebody to using orange and green together, you probably wouldn&#8217;t get very far unless that person was willing to try almost anything. Orange isn&#8217;t a color that can be mixed with other colors easily, but combining it with a nice green can give your website the unusual and unique look that you&#8217;ve been trying to achieve. You could use an orange background with pale green text boxes and headers for best results.</p>
<h3>Turquoise and Green</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/94852245@N00/2034873075/"><img src="http://creativeoverflow.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/turquoise-grey.jpg" alt="" title="turquoise-grey" width="550" height="485" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-9728" /></a><br />
Turquoise isn&#8217;t thought of as an appealing color, and neither is gray; however, try combining the two for the ultimate unique color combination! Turquoise is quite a strong color, but a duller gray will balance it out, creating the perfect combination for any website.</p>
<p>Standing out from the crowd when designing a website isn&#8217;t the easiest thing to do. The colors of a website are the main things that stick in people&#8217;s minds when they visit it; therefore, you have the opportunity to create a good impression by using unique, appealing and unusual color combination&#8217;s.</p>
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		<title>Designers, Are You Blogging? You Should Be!</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/designers-are-you-blogging-you-should-be/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=designers-are-you-blogging-you-should-be</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/designers-are-you-blogging-you-should-be/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:05:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Louise</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9651</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If the answer to the above question is no, then you really should be. Blogging offers you an outlet to vent your angers and frustrations about the graphic design industry, it allows you to interact with other graphic designers plus it can even boost your income. There is seriously hundreds of topics that you can...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If the answer to the above question is <strong>no</strong>, then you really should be. Blogging offers you an outlet to vent your angers and frustrations about the graphic design industry, it allows you to interact with other graphic designers plus it can even boost your income. There is seriously hundreds of topics that you can cover ranging anything from web design to <a href="http://www.nextdayflyers.com/business-card-printing/">business card printing</a>. The sky is the limit. </p>
<p>Now you might be wondering why blogging is so effect for designers? Well here is why:</p>
<h3>Blogging helps you get found on Google</h3>
<p>Having your name associated with the graphic design industry means that the more you blog about<br />
graphic design and use the keyword associated with your industry, the more you and your blog will appear in the search results, especially if it is a well-viewed and shared blog.</p>
<h3>Employment Opportunities</h3>
<p>If you are able to be found on Google and rank for a keyword associated with your industry then this means that people searching for design services will also find you when searching for  design and may want to use your skills on their next project. Blogging also helps you showcase your latest work and the solutions that you came up with to problems that clients had. This also means that through your blog potential clients can see how you could help them with a design problem they may have or an inquiry.</p>
<h3>Keeping up with the latest industry news</h3>
<p>Through blogging you will notice that you will also read a lot more material, through other blogs and social media, on your industry to try and keep up with other blogs. This means that you will be more up-to-date with advancements in general so that when it comes to client work, you can offer them the most current design solutions.</p>
<h3>Receiving Feedback</h3>
<p>If you blog about your latest designs or your thoughts on the industry then you are openly welcoming feedback from the entire design community. So rather than asking close friends who may not be as honest about what they think, you can ask your readers what they think about a certain proposal or idea and gain honest feedback, whether good or bad.</p>
<h3>Earn from affiliates and advertising</h3>
<p>If you are a consistent blogger who has gained a small following you will most likely be able to offer advertising space on your page to companies who offer services and products related to the graphic design field. You can also sign up to an affiliate program so that you will earn a percentage of what people spend on certain sites if they click on the affiliate link through your website. If your blog becomes really, really well known, then this extra income can really make a difference to your paypacket.</p>
<h3>Feature your own designs in posts</h3>
<p>You should, where possible feature your own designs in posts, perhaps explaining the design process for that particular design, but then also mention that the design is on sale. This can help you sell some of your design. Alternatively you could showcase a set of designs you have been working on and sell them at a reduced price to people who have found them through your blog.</p>
<p>There are so many great reasons to blog, some of which are mentioned above. Those who blog really do have a presence and an edge in a really competitive industry, so get blogging today!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>4 Key Points to Focus on for a Memorable Logo</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/4-key-points-to-focus-on-for-a-memorable-logo/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=4-key-points-to-focus-on-for-a-memorable-logo</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/4-key-points-to-focus-on-for-a-memorable-logo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:05:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roxanne Peterson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Graphic Design]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9647</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A logo is a graphical representation for your company and is a combination of text, color and symbols. Logos can also carry as additional tagline which defines the company and speaks about its intentions. Logo designing has emerged as a marketing strategy. In today’s world of cut throat competition, one needs to define one’s goals...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A logo is a graphical representation for your company and is a combination of text, color and symbols. Logos can also carry as additional tagline which defines the company and speaks about its intentions. Logo designing has emerged as a marketing strategy. In today’s world of cut throat competition, one needs to define one’s goals and create good marketing strategies. Logos are an indispensable part of a company and are featured on all frames of projections like visiting cards to billboards and hoardings.</p>
<p>A lot of basic key points need to be kept in mind during the drafting of the logo. First and foremost is the instruction given by the client to the logo designer. These contain valuable insights about the company profile and about what the logo intends to portray. The logo drafting in the rough format requires a team of people debating the possibilities of a probable logo and then finalizing it with minor changes. The rough draft now needs to be confirmed by the company for the designers to proceed with the final logo. Subtle changes are made in colors and fonts and the final logo design is obtained.</p>
<p><em>A lot of important factors affect how the logo turns out and four of them are-</em></p>
<h2>1. Strong graphical representation</h2>
<p>Association of the texts with the symbols has to be achieved to get that perfect logo. Strive to balance out your logo with the combination of upper and lower case characters. This technique helps to highlight the importance of certain words while making the other characters a little subtle. Color selection is also an important aspect and can make or break the impression of your logo. Using a lot of colors for the logo is never advisable as it makes the view very dashy. Try to incorporate highlighting colors to give the words or letters a three dimensional appearance. These letters actually hold on the attention of the onlookers and thereby enhance the impact of the logos. Some symbols can also increase the appeal of the logos and they can be geometrical patterns to even normal lines below the text. What matters at the end of the day is how well all the elements of the logo is merged and the overall impact they leave.</p>
<h2>2. How well the logo defines the company</h2>
<p>A logo is basically a graphical representation of the company. The logo designing team must strictly follow the guidelines set by the company. With most logos that fail to create an impact, the fault is the non association of the company and the logo. For  instance logos of corporate firms should have the serious formal appeal whereas the logo for a kid’s toy company should be vibrant and fun. The designer needs to thoroughly study the company profile and then settle for the draft that would suit the company. Certain colors like blue or white are extensively used for the logo as these colors symbolize trust and quality. Ensure the company is well associated with the logo and should help people connect with the brand that the logo stands for.</p>
<h2>3. Create something new</h2>
<p>Creativity and novelty of thought are the two most important qualities that a logo designer needs to possess. With tough competition in the market, every company wants to outshine its contemporaries using high end marketing strategies and logos are a big part of the marketing of the company. With so many logos being created every year, similarities in design are bound to happen and this is the biggest blunder in logo designing. Every logo must be unique and must solely represent the company it is made for. The purpose is to make the logo synonymous with the company.</p>
<h2>4. Keep it simple and keep room for change</h2>
<p>A company invests a lot of money for the logos, and with time the logos do need a little reformation. Many companies have a number of logos which are similar in the basic design but vary a little in detailing like colors and fonts. These logos are then used for different purposes from cards to other projections. Beside a simple design with intricate detailing is more attention grabbing than one which has multiple colors and jazzy fonts. Simplicity well executed can lead to perfection.</p>
<p>In today’s competitive world, logos are a marketing tool used to enhance the profitability of the company. Logos have evolved from simple ones bearing only the initials of the company to more graphical and appropriate representatives. Logo designing has evolved into a complicated art with a large number of people working as designers. From getting clients to drafting the rough draft and finally executing the scribble of ideas for the logos, the entire task is a tiresome and time consuming affair.</p>
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		<title>5 ‘Must-Haves’ for Custom Business Cards</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/5-must-haves-for-custom-business-cards/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=5-must-haves-for-custom-business-cards</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/5-must-haves-for-custom-business-cards/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 2011 09:44:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Donald</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9638</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Business cards are small pieces of paper used to memorize people. It is hard to remember everyone whom you met in your life for different purposes, in order to rectify this problem, business cards come to rescue. In this ostentatious time, it is hard to make the people stick in your mind, so it would...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.uprinting.com/business-cards.html">Business cards</a> are small pieces of paper used to memorize people. It is hard to remember everyone whom you met in your life for different purposes, in order to rectify this problem, business cards come to rescue.  In this ostentatious time, it is hard to make the people stick in your mind, so it would be helpful if you ask for their business cards. Whenever you need to contact that person just review your business cards holder and find the contact numbers and addresses of him. </p>
<p>Now it has become a custom and tradition to handover business cards. Everyone keeps his personal cards and corporate cards in his pocket to distribute them when they meet with anyone. </p>
<p>Other than personal business cards, <a href="http://www.dowprinting.com/">corporate business cards</a> are printed with more zeal and zest because it is a perfect way to advertise your business and work among people. Now people are paying lot for printing attractive and unique business cards. Time has gone when people didn’t use to pay attention over design, material, colors and printing quality of business cards. </p>
<p>Now people are in race to prove their identity in much better way than others. So how can you enjoy an edge over others who are also finding space to advertise their personality and business via using business cards? It would be done by printing custom business cards. </p>
<h2>Elements of Custom Business Cards</h2>
<p>Though basic elements of custom business cards are same as of standard or conventional business cards, but the improved quality and unique design is a real difference between a custom business card and stereotype business card.<br />
One can make his identity stand out if he use some stand out techniques while printing custom business cards. These techniques are given as follows.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Embossed Logo</strong></li>
<p>Logo printing on business card is common, but embossed logo printing of your company is not a common activity that everybody does when he prints his business cards. Embossing the logo give a unique and refreshing look to your card even from distance its visibility is high. </p>
<li><strong>Die Cut </strong></li>
<p>Rectangular and standard business cards are known as bore and dull cards. Trillions of this type of cards revolves around the world daily. But majority of them get unnoticed due to their gauche and clumsy design. Printing die cut business cards have the ability to get noticed. </p>
<li><strong>Durable Stuff</strong></li>
<p>Adopting different printing stuff is another way to make you memorize. Plastic, metal and wood are among those stuffs that would add ‘wow’ effect as well as will give durability to your custom business cards</p>
<li><strong>Full Color Printing</strong></li>
<p>One color printing is low cost but it might not create any impact among its readers. In order to please the receiver of business card at first sight, print full color custom business cards. </p>
<li><strong>Online Printing Company </strong></li>
<p>Last but not least element to remain in receiver’s mind is by adopting an online printing company to print your custom business cards. Online printing company is surely a best plat form where all upper mentioned elements are treated with professionalism and digital printing technology in quick time.
</ol>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Securing Your Firewall to Protect Your Online Activity</title>
		<link>http://creativeoverflow.net/securing-your-firewall-to-protect-your-online-activity/?utm_source=rss&#038;utm_medium=rss&#038;utm_campaign=securing-your-firewall-to-protect-your-online-activity</link>
		<comments>http://creativeoverflow.net/securing-your-firewall-to-protect-your-online-activity/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:06:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Adams Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://creativeoverflow.net/?p=9629</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A computer that uses Internet cannot be fully secured unless it uses firewall software to protect your online activity. If you use the Internet you must have firewall too besides an anti-virus program. Anti-virus software protects your computer from known threats that are spelled out definitely, such as Trojans and spyware. Importance of Firewall Protection...<hr />
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			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A computer that uses Internet cannot be fully secured unless it uses firewall software to protect your online activity. If you use the Internet you must have firewall too besides an anti-virus program. Anti-virus software protects your computer from known threats that are spelled out definitely, such as Trojans and spyware. </p>
<h2>Importance of Firewall Protection</h2>
<p><strong>Firewall protection</strong> is essential for securing local networks and computers against hacking attempts. A firewall protects your computer by acting as a buffer between the Internet and your local network. You can use a firewall to configure settings regarding which information enters your network and which ones leave it. Firewalls, are therefore, highly essential for protecting your computer against unauthorized access.</p>
<h2>Routers Provide Firewall Security</h2>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.sourcefire.com/">Firewall security</a></strong> has two different types – hardware-based and software-based. If routers are used in your home or office to connect all your computers to the Web, then such a router plays the role of a firewall. The router is responsible for passing information to and from your network through it. Routers make sure that information doesn’t directly reach the Internet without passing through it and vice versa.</p>
<h2>Firewall Software</h2>
<p>If your computer is directly connected to the Internet, you can use an open source firewall that is software-based. All outgoing and incoming packets of information are monitored by the firewall program so that sensitive information doesn’t leak out or harmful information doesn’t reach your computer. It uses a set of rules as you define them to filter all incoming and outgoing information.</p>
<h2>Why a Next Generation Firewall?</h2>
<p>Proper configuration is most important for efficient use of a firewall. You’ll have trouble using your computer if your firewall program is configured to deny all access to your network and your computer. A firewall that doesn’t restrict any access of information is meaningless. A <a href="http://www.sourcefire.com/security-technologies/cyber-security-products/3d-system/next-generation-intrusion-prevention-system-ngips">next generation firewall</a> that is properly configured will keep out unwanted packets of information and allow necessary exchange of information. A good firewall application will check for specific things to allow or disallow a packet of information.</p>
<h2>Customized Firewall</h2>
<p>Firewall software with predefined security settings disallows the passing of certain types of information packets. These predefined settings can be customized further according to the rules you define. You can always allow a particular domain or IP address, for instance, to share information with your network without any restrictions. </p>
<p>You can also block a specific IP address or domain name to exchange any information with your computer. This feature is often utilized by companies to prevent their employees from accessing entertainment sites, so as to prevent putting pressure on the company servers.</p>
<p>Firewalls are important to keep your browsing safe, so we decided to publish this article just to make everyone aware. Have a great day.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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