Tricklin

It's been quite a long while since I submitted a request to activate Google Analytics on my website. So long, in fact, that I forgot I even put in a request in the first place. Then the other day, I checked my e-mail, and there it was, my invite to Google Analytics. Needless to say, I immediately went to the site, created an account, grabbed the necessary tracking code, and implemented it on my website. I must say, it's great! The amount of information at your fingertips is fantastic. The best part: It's FREE!!!

Some of the nice features include:

• Ability to add multiple websites (5 total)
  • Ability to Add Multiple Users to View Reports (per website)
• Geo Map Overly report (I've had visitors from Australia, Paris, & Athens)
• Overall Keyword Conversion report
• Web Design Parameter reports
  • What are the common browsers used to view your site
  • What are the common screen resolutions used
  • What OSs are being used

Overall, I'd say it was worth the wait (considering it's free). It's just great to see if people visit your site, and if so, where do they go. Thanks Google, yet another amazing product you've created.

This is actually a pretty cool concept. It's a community of users that are available to answer any questions you may have. Some answers may be absolutely ridiculous, as are some questions, but most of the time you'll find some valid entries. I was doing a little research, and came across an example of a valid question and answer:

Q: I'm going to my fiancé's parents' condo. Any ideas for a good gift to give them for hosting me?

A: Best Answer - Chosen By Voters
The plant is a thoughtful idea if they like plants. Some people don't want them because you're basically giving them something else to take care of.
Unless they're Jehovah's witnesses or they or your fiance is a recovering alcoholic, a fabulous bottle of wine has never hurt as a gift. Good liquor is always well-received, but giving them a bottle of Scotch if you don't them too well might be presuming too much. If you can find out what type they like from the fiance, that couldn't hurt either. Good luck!

This question is very pertinent, considering many people will be visiting their significant other's family over the holidays. This site is a great way to get ideas from others who have dealt with similiar situations. Maybe I'll pick up a bottle of Merlot to take to the in-laws this holiday season.

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Last night, while cooking, I realized something that I normally would have taken for granted. But as a web designer, I thought it would be great to make note of this finding.

How It Happened
The recipe called for 2 cups of water and 2/3 cup of milk. So, I grabbed a measuring cup, and the gallon of milk and starting pouring. When I finished pouring, I realized just how simple this normally annoying task was. I undertand this statment seems silly. How could a liquid measuring cup have such a profound effect on me?

Why Am I Making Such A Big Deal About This?
As an interface designer, it should be your number one goal to create an interface that is easy to use. Most often, that means keeping it simple. This is exactly what the good people at Oxo International have done. They've created something easy to use, while implementing a simple solution. They realized that there was something wrong with the way the measuring cups of the past were designed. People used to have to either a.) hold the measuring cup at eye level in one hand, while holding their milk above their heads with in the other, or b.) bend down so their eyes were at counter level, while holding their milk above their heads, or c.) pour the milk and make a guess as to whether or not it filled the cup to the correct amount.

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