Interesting article by David Kirkpatrick in Fortune.

"Ever since the Internet started to connect everyone to everyone else all the time, people from around the world can more easily contribute energy, ideas, and knowledge to joint projects. Some of the more familiar examples of these collaborative efforts include blogs, open-source software, podcasts, and even the nonprofit online encyclopedia Wikipedia.

Open-source programming has been in the forefront of this movement for years, but the concept is steadily spreading elsewhere.

When users chip in on projects—commercial or otherwise—the experience improves for everybody. I call this phenomenon the contribution economy. This is how it works: If a blogger posts a thought about something in the news, another blogger can add his or her own comment. Or when someone—anyone!—modifies a listing on Wikipedia, value is created that benefits everyone."

Recent iPod ads in Japan.

Alright. So I will admit that this is not easy, keeping up with my blog on a daily basis. And it is bad, because it ends up piling up on me. So I will begin, and state that I will attempt to be better about it.

I'm sure that everyone here is very aware of the current Ajax overtake, and the advertising questions following it. 37 Signals, the makers of BaseCamp, are already looking forward, to the future of web-apps, and what that means for small business. I couldn't agree more. Even their style is starting a trend.

If you haven't been living under a rock, I'm sure you've noticed that everyone is jumping on the design bandwagon, and it's influence on business. I hope this helps get designers the true respect they deserve. Even Stanford is taking notice. If you really are serious about taking the plunge, don't forget to read How To Be Creative, by Hugh. Also seen on Change This, if you prefer the PDF version. He's currently in the process of getting a book published on the subject.

Okay. I have recovered. And it is offical. I am a BIG fan of Chicago. I have tons of notes from the How Conference, and as I find time I will post them. I will say this though, 3840 designers in one hotel is a fire hazard. Not to mention that at the same time, the NeoCon convention was going on. Although, this did make for an interesting conversation at the bar at my hotel.


That, and the fact that so far, Chicago deep dish is kickin arse and taking names.

"Palm One has linked a deal with luxury car maker Audi to enable automatic Bluetooth paring between the Treo 650 and Audi cars. The car will automatically become your hands-free device. Treo 650 will ship next month."

Graphically speaking, who has the better poster? 2004 Election: Don't get to comfortable, it's happening, again.

iamstatic is definitely worth a visit, along with the bearskinrug sketchbook.

And, just in case you were wondering... they have it covered.

For further illumination on the subject of geek fashion, be sure to catch amadeo decada. They have numerous cute tees, along with a pretty innovative way to display their catalog.

I always find it interesting how Speak Up is so on point. Every time I visit the site I am inspired to further the discussion among friends and colleagues. Conversation is such a great thing. For all of you designers who just so happen to like to ski, this adventure might be just what you were looking for.

Recent coffee news: And if it's not already bad enough that I am addicted to Iced Mochas, now you'll be able to burn your own custom CD while you sip on your cup of joe.