Web Browsers

Since building great websites is my business, I like to keep up with the latest and greatest.  However I also know that there are a lot of people who don't (or just don't know how) update their computers and browsers.  While Microsoft tries with its not-so-auto "auto update", it still requires a push now and then from you, the user, to get those important security updates and new features. So you might want to go to your start menu, highlight "all programs" and at the very top you should see the "windows update" link. Run that a few times. 

OK so now that you've got the latest and greatest Microsoft has to offer (you should be using Internet Explorer 8), why not venture out and try something new?

Mozilla Firefox

Firefox is whats called an open source web browser.  This means that anyone who would like to help improve the browser, most certainly can help.  Its kind of like Wikipedia, where anyone can contribute.  Currently Firefox has the 2nd largest install base, and is only gaining in popularity.  Mozilla updates Firefox often, is considered very secure, and had boat-loads of plug-ins (tools that integrate into the browser to make certain tasks simpler).  Firefox sports a clean interface and displays web pages properly. Dempsey Design Approved.

Download Firefox

Apple Safari

My personal favorite browser is Safari.  Safari sports an even cleaner and streamlined interface than other browsers.  I find it speedier than other browsers, and prefer its RSS reader.  The Top Sites feature is pretty nice too.  Apple also frequently updates Safari and is also considered to be very secure.  Safari also renders Dempsey Design sites properly.

Download Safari

Google Chrome

If I'm forced to use a PC, my web browser of choice is Google's Chrome.  I also enjoy Chrome's very simple interface (you can use the address bar to search, type in the URL).  Chrome also seems much quicker than any other browser for the PC.  Who knows the triple dub better than Google? Chrome is also newly available for Mac users as "Chromium" but is still a pre-alpha build (not ready for widespread public use).  Chrome is also built on the same technology as Apple's Safari.

Download Chrome (PC)

All of these browsers are free.  Everyone has their own preference, but I highly encourage branching out and trying something new.  None of these browsers are so different you won't be able to find your way around and more than likely you'll find a feature you really like. In no way is this a definitive guide, it is merely meant to create awareness about alternatives.  All of these browsers provide a better internet experience than Internet Explorer currently provides.  Do you have a favorite browser? Sound off in the comments!

The Phonebook is a Waste

....And in more ways than one. Let me ask you, have you used your phonebook today? Better yet, I'm willing to bet you could count on 1 finger (preferably the longest one) how many times you've used your phone book this year. With commonplace resources such as iPhones and crackberries, it's so much easier to just 'Google it'. With googling, you find the phone number you were looking for far faster and without all the nonsense and clutter.

Yet, phonebook reps still insist on their importance and relevance in today's modern society. Putting Phonebook reps aside, more importantly ask yourself: "Do I really want a customer who found me in a phonebook?" For some businesses a customer is a customer. For most, an informed consumer who chooses to go with your business is not going to come from a phonebook ad. Its a waste of your advertising dollars.

Despite how the internet has changed the way consumers shop, they still print billions of books each year. In Wenatchee our phone books tend to be about an inch thick. Travel 2 hours west: they are probably closer to 3-6 inch phone books. If each book is 4 inches thick, how many trees are ripped down-- just to never get used? It's a waste of not only trees, but the gas, and energy used to sell these useless and atrocious books! Now I'm not an environmentalist, however I am a realist. I cannot fathom with the internet so readily availablein your pocketthat phone books still exist. Phonebooks are a terrible, terrible waste.

Part of my goal with Dempsey Design is to promote green and environmentally responsible design. I will build you a fantastic website that you can change anytime (even if your phone number is wrong) for probably less than what you're paying your phonebook rep. You will get more quality business from your website than with your yellow page ad. I'll guarantee that, and you'll be taking a great step towards improving the environment and a giant leap towards improving your business.

Contact me today for a free consultation.