Final Entry

All done - finished - completed
THE END!!!!!

Well not really the end it is only the beginning!
My own first real website is under construction and can be found at http://www.makkblakk.com - please come and visit  - all helpful feedback is welcomed!!

Module 6 Activity 2 Making my own web page

Whooooo!!! finally we get to producing our own web site!!!
Now this is good and it is fun and it is not really that hard???
My first practice page is at: http://www.sevendeadlysins.makkblakk.com/
A work in progress and much more to do.......
Please let me know how you go with it?
All advice and help is much needed! 

Update: 21 November 2010 -
thank you everyone for your helpful comments,
they have all been implemented now I am making my real website.

Module 6 Activity 3 Making web page

Recreating Launceston Flood Control Report
Well.....I could fill 10 pages with bitching about the corrupted learning videos and inadequate Polytechnic learning recources!
But why both wasting more time - I have reproduced the page - its done.
BUT WITH MUCH PAIN!!!!!!
Proof it is completed can be found at  http://www.ltonflood.makkblakk.com/

module 6 Learning Activity 1 research Web

Question 1 How the internet got started and by whom: "The concept of data communication - transmitting data between two different places, connected via some kind of electromagnetic medium, such as radio or an electrical wire - actually predates the introduction of the first computers. Such communication systems were typically limited to point to point communication between two end devices. Telegraph systems and telex machines can be considered early precursors of this kind of communication. The earlier computers used the technology available at the time to allow communication between the central processing unit and remote terminals. As the technology evolved new systems were devised to allow communication over longer distances (for terminals) or with higher speed (for interconnection of local devices) that were necessary for the mainframe computer model. Using these technologies it was possible to exchange data (such as files) between remote computers. However, the point to point communication model was limited, as it did not allow for direct communication between any two arbitrary systems; a physical link was necessary. The technology was also deemed as inherently unsafe for strategic and military use, because there were no alternative paths for the communication in case of an enemy attack. As a response, several research programs started to explore and articulate principles of communications between physically separate systems, leading to the development of the packet switching model of digital networking. These research efforts included those of the laboratories of Vinton G. Cerf at Stanford University, Donald Davies (NPL), Paul Baran (RAND Corporation), and Leonard Kleinrock at MIT and at UCLA. The research led to the development of several packet-switched networking solutions in the late 1960s and 1970s, including ARPANET, Telenet, and the X.25 protocols. Additionally, public access and hobbyist networking systems grew in popularity, including unix-to-unix copy (UUCP) and FidoNet. They were however still disjointed separate networks, served only by limited gateways between networks. This led to the application of packet switching to develop a protocol for internetworking, where multiple different networks could be joined together into a super-framework of networks. By defining a simple common network system, the Internet Protocol Suite, the concept of the network could be separated from its physical implementation. This spread of internetworking began to form into the idea of a global network that would be called the Internet, based on standardized protocols officially implemented in 1982. Adoption and interconnection occurred quickly across the advanced telecommunication networks of the western world, and then began to penetrate into the rest of the world as it became the de-facto international standard for the global network. However, the disparity of growth between advanced nations and the third-world countries led to a digital divide that is still a concern today. Following commercialization and introduction of privately run Internet service providers in the 1980s, and the Internet's expansion for popular use in the 1990s, the Internet has had a drastic impact on culture and commerce. This includes the rise of near instant communication by electronic mail (e-mail), text based discussion forums, and the World Wide Web. Investor speculation in new markets provided by these innovations would also lead to the inflation and subsequent collapse of the Dot-com bubble. But despite this, the Internet continues to grow, driven by commerce, greater amounts of online information and knowledge and social networking known as Web 2.0" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Internet) Number of web pages online: Nobody is in charge of the internet so nobody can exactly say. - but there are millions and billions.......and increasing every minute! " According to the Netcraft Web Server Survey, as of December 2009 there are around 233,848,493 websites are available on world wide web. There has been an increase of 47 million hostnames and 7 million active websites over the last 12 months. In the month of December 2009 netcraft has received responses from 233,848,493 sites, which is an increase of 212000 since last month. This means that more than 2 lakh websites got added on internet in last one month. Netcraft is an Internet services company based in Bath, England. It provides web server and web hosting market-share analysis. However, the company is famous for its free anti-phishing toolbar for the Firefox and Internet Explorer browsers. (http://hottopicsonline.info/internet/how-many-websites-are-there) Maintaining standards for publishing on the internet is done by: World Wide Web Consortium, W3C. The difference between Internet and Intranet. There's one major distinction between an intranet and the Internet: The Internet is an open, public space, while an intranet is designed to be a private space. An intranet may be accessible from the Internet, but as a rule it's protected by a password and accessible only to employees or other authorized users. From within a company, an intranet server may respond much more quickly than a typical Web site. This is because the public Internet is at the mercy of traffic spikes, server breakdowns and other problems that may slow the network. Within a company, however, users have much more bandwidth and network hardware may be more reliable. This makes it easier to serve high-bandwidth content, such as audio and video, over an intranet. (http://www.allbusiness.com/technology/internet-technology/639-1.html) A Web server is: A Web server is a computer program that delivers (serves) content, such as Web pages, using the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), over the World Wide Web. The term Web server can also refer to the computer or virtual machine running the program. ... (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_server) An ISP is: A service which provides access to a remote computer system. This access connects your personal computer to the Internet. Also called 'Access Providers'. ISPs that you access by modem are often called 'dial-up services. (www.usg.edu/galileo/skills/ollc_glossary.phtml) A host is: Web host is in the business of providing server space, Web services and file maintenance for Web sites controlled by individuals or companies that do not have their own Web servers. (www.bewebmaster.com/50.php) HTML is: HyperText Markup Language, a computer "language" used to define the appearance and functions of websites and their pages. When talking of websites, HTML is often referred to as "code" or "source code." Superset elaborations of such code include XHTML, XML, etc. (www.writerswebsiteplanner.com/resources/glossary.html) CSS is: CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheet. This is a document format which provides a set of style rules which can then be incorporated in an XHTML or HTML document. It is a means to separate web content from formatting and presentation information. (www.joedolson.com/glossary.php) Question 2 'The top ten best hosting' say these are Australia's best hosts: (http://www.thetop10bestwebhosting.com/aug?gclid=CM6MoZmqn6QCF0mbwodnzKG4Q) ____________________ or 'Web Hosting Geeks' say the top ten Australian hosts are: Independent reviews of the best web hosting providers. Cheap professional web hosting services under $10 a month; all webhosting plans include at least one free domain name registration and 30 day money back guarantee. Rank Web Hosting Provider Features Bonus Features Hosting Review 1 Inmotion Business Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $5.95 Free Domain Name, Choice of Data Centers, Top Technical Support Inmotion Review Host Rating: 98% Review Inmotion 2 iPage Trusted Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $3.50 Host Unlimited Domains, Anytime Moneyback, $400 of FREE Extras iPage Review Host Rating: 97% Review iPage 3 WebHostingHub Best Personal Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $3.95 Free Domain Name, Host Unlimited Domains, 24/7/365 U.S. Support WebHostingHub Review Host Rating: 97% Review WebHostingHub 4 WebHostingPad Cheap Reliable Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $1.99 Free Domain Forever, Host Unlimited Domains, $100 Marketing Bonus WebHostingPad Review Host Rating: 96% Review WebHostingPad 5 JustHost Editor's Choice Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $3.45 Free Domain Forever, Host Unlimited Domains, $100 Marketing Bonus JustHost Review Host Rating: 95% Review JustHost 6 FatCow Cheap Business Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $3.67 Free Domain Forever, Host Unlimited Domains, $75 Marketing Bonus FatCow Review Host Rating: 95% Review FatCow 7 GreenGeeks 300% Green Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $4.95 Free Domain Name, Host Unlimited Domains, FREE Site Builder GreenGeeks Review Host Rating: 95% Review GreenGeeks 8 Bluehost Unlimited Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $6.95 Free Domain Forever, Host Unlimited Domains, $75 Marketing Bonus Bluehost Review Host Rating: 94% Review Bluehost 9 Hostmonster Cheap Unix Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $6.95 Free Domain Forever, Host Unlimited Domains, $75 Marketing Bonus Hostmonster Review Host Rating: 93% Review Hostmonster 10 GoDaddy Largest Web Hosting Space: Unlimited Traffic: Unlimited Price: $12.74 Free Domain Name, Host Unlimited Domains, Free SSL Certificate GoDaddy Review Host Rating: 92% Review GoDaddy Editor's notice: Web hosting providers ranked by the best price-value ratio. Host reliability, uptime, key features, bonus features, customer support, past and current user feedbacks, user-friendliness and hosting awards have been taken into account as well. (http://webpostinggeeks.com/) ___________________________________ Web Hosting Yes' says top 10 US hosts are: (http://webhostingsyes.com/) Question 3 Advantage of hosting overseas: US hosting is cheaper for Australians than local hosting and cheaper again in UK better customer support service in some other countries legal advantages like tax evasion?? Advantage of hosting ISP: upload is much faster transfer of images much faster easy, fast and cheap phone access to host local search engines favours locally hosted sites when organizing search results Question 4 This is a bad domain name because: it's too long to remember and type again right and not easy for search engines to locate first. Question 5 Useful tips on choosing a domain name: 1. Keep it short and make it the same as your business name and all advertising, so it is easy to remember 2. Register as .com because it's what people think of first, but register .net, .org etc. as well to eliminate possible misdirection away from you 3.Don’t pay Large Amounts of money it is not necessary 4. Register Your Domain NOW to give yourself more chance of getting what you want 5. Also Register similar names and miss spelling of your name to optimism results from search engines Question 6 See if my name is available: 'humanityinsanity.com' and ' insanityofhumanity.com' have both gone. I am working on what I might want instead?? Search for my domain name registration cost: $30 or $100.40 for 5 years or many more options - I am searching a free one???? Other peoples opinion of my name: general consensus was that I am insane - so not much productive help there - I will ask some more informed peoples opinion when I have thought of something new? Question 7 The difference between .com.au and .com and which is better: "Basically, a .com.au domain name identifies you as an Australian business. This has a number of advantages if you are targetting Australian Internet users. Probably the most important effect a .com.au domain has is that some search engines filter their results according to where the searcher lives. For example, if you conduct a search on Google, it is clever enough to work out where you are. And when it knows that you live in Australia, it will often make the assumption that you will be more interested in Australian websites, and so it may place Australian websites higher up the search results than international ones. This isn't always the case, but over time you will find that depending on your product, .com.au domains may rank higher in Australia than international domain names. This is important if your market is solely in Australia. What if your market is global? Then a .com may be more appropriate for you. For example, our domain name is a .com domain, because we can and do provide our services worldwide, even though we are an Australian business based in Australia. We want to be recognised as a global Internet business and so we chose the .com domain. Having said that, there is no reason why you can't have both. It is certainly possible to purchase both the .com and the .com.au versions of your domain name and have them both point to the same website. Don't go overboard though. If you purchase too many domain names and have them all providing the same content, this can be seen by many search engines as "spamming", and could possibly penalise you as a result. What about the price difference? There used to be a very big price difference between .com. and .com.au domain names, but in recent years the .com.au domains have dropped significantly in price, so that the difference is no longer so great. Using our prices as an example, a .com domain will cost you $20 per year. A .com.au domain will cost you $25 per year (.com.au domains can only be purchased for 2 year periods, so the cost will actually be $50 for 2 years, plus GST). So the price is no longer a huge issue, and if you are trading in Australia it makes sense to get the .com.au domain name so that you are recognised as an Australian business and get the benefits of it within Australia's search engine market." (http://domains.southwestecommerce.net.au) Question 8 Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of improving the visibility of a web site or a web page in search engines via the "natural" or un-paid ("organic" or "algorithmic") search results. Other forms of search engine marketing (SEM) target paid listings. In general, the earlier (or higher on the page), and more frequently a site appears in the search results list, the more visitors it will receive from the search engine. SEO may target different kinds of search, including image search, local search, video search and industry-specific vertical search engines. This gives a web site web presence. (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Search_Engine_Optimiser) Strategies I would use on my site: 1.make a website title tag that has good visibility 2. good html structure that says everything I want to say without images or animations 3.good header tags for each page that describe content quickly 4.learn how to use robots.txt file to help direct spiders to the important information easily 5.test my web site with as many different browsers as possible Question 9 Web site usability is: the ease by which a web site can be used (www.philipclintmarketingservices.co.uk/glossary.html) Quality components are: 1. Most users do not scroll so have all important information on screen size 2. Blue is the best color for links because it is most commonly used thus easily identified 3. White space improves comprehension 4. Labels work best above the field as we are use to the format from reading books 5. Most users are blind to advertising so don't let make your page look like an ad (http://smachingmagazine.com/2009/09/24/10-useful-usability-findings-and-quidelines/ Question 10 Example of usable web site and why: (http://www.nick-cave.com/) you do not have to scroll down page to see what the site is about white space improving comprehension is substituted by grey here providing the same result all labels, links and menus are clearly marked in uniform style - easily recognized this site is not all about advertising it is an information site Example of unusable web site and why: (http://www.anglefire.com/super/badwebs/main.htm) This is named the worst website but they have still included some good usability?? - important information is on screen size - blue color used for links and easily identified - labels are above the field - doesn't look like an add the very worst problems with this page are: - the constant flashing colour confusion - the disgusting audio Question 11 Accessibility is: Ease of use and ability to use the web-site - by as many users as possible (www.philipclintmarketingservices.co.uk/glossary.html) Tips to make my web site accessible 1.follow official guide lines of WCAG 2.use standard code - XHTML or CSS 3.test everything thoroughly and regularly Popular screen-reader solutions (software) 1.Jaws 6 2.Connect Out Loud 2 3.Lynx FREE solutions that test website's accessibility 1.Cynthia Says 2.WAVE 3.WebXact Name for the quality standards set by the US Government to ensure websites are accessible to everyone and that you have to apply for in your website to be eligible for US Govt. web contract: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) published by World Wide Web Consortium Note: the link to MS Word doc (Sydney 2000 Olympics) in this assignment is broken. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>. chris's comments after submitting As for the hosting options I use bluehost/ justhost & lunarpages for US based. All pretty good. Locally I use iinet for http://www.lsfaustralia.org.au http://www.seat.org.au and their hosting is fast. Transferring files up there is 10x quicker than using US host. But it's 50% more expensive. as for testing your site using as many different browsers as possible: http://browsershots.org/ Nick Cave online; do they really need the "online" label in the title? As for your URL, make it as short as you can. Make it memorable. The US Govt. standard is missing hint: it starts with "Section ..." re-submit your answer here then move on, ................................................... last question resubmitted: Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794d) and passed.

Module 6 - Assesment Activity 1

Does this blog work?????

seems it does - got the okay move on sign from Chris - now to the web page???

Module 6 - learning activity 1

Researching blogs

The word "blog" means: The word "blog" means: A shortened version of "Web Log" (Macquarie Dictionary,4th ed.,2006). 'The term "weblog" was coined by Jorn Barger[4] on 17 December 1997. The short form, "blog," was coined by Peter Merholz, who jokingly broke the word weblog into the phrase we blog in the sidebar of his blog Peterme.com in April or May 1999.[5][6][7] Shortly thereafter, Evan Williams at Pyra Labs used "blog" as both a noun and verb ("to blog," meaning "to edit one's weblog or to post to one's weblog") and devised the term "blogger" in connection with Pyra Labs' Blogger product, leading to the popularization of the terms' (http://en.wikapedia.org/wiki/Blog) What a "blog" is and what it does: 'A blog is a type of website or part of a website. Blogs are usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. Blog can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog. Most blogs are interactive, allowing visitors to leave comments and even message each other via widgets on the blogs and it is this interactivity that distinguishes them from other static websites. Many blogs provide commentary or news on a particular subject; others function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, Web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability of readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs.' (http://en.wikapedia.org/wiki/Blog) Types of "blogs" available: 'Most blogs are primarily textual, although some focus on art (Art blog), photographs (photoblog), videos (video blogging), music (MP3 blog), audio (podcasting.' (http://en.wikapedia.org/wiki/Blog/) Example ! - Art blog: http://www.artnewsblog.com/ Example 2 - Photo blog: http://www.whitetulipblog.com/ Example 3 - MP3 blog: http://www.sixeyes.blogspot.com/2009/06/nick-cave-live-melbourne-australia-2009.html Blogging system strengths and weaknesses: This is a great table answering all questions and more, except for hacking? There doesn't seems to be a system that can really avoid it - best hints I can find are to change your passwords regularly and don't choose anything that might be found on your blog??? This table comparison from: http://www.blog-services-review.toptenreviews.com/ )

Module 5 assesment activity 2 - OH&S

Occupational Health and Safety Presentation
Well I didn't stick exactly to the brief for this one because I could not fit in all sections of the 4 elements we had to address and include all 12 points of the assesment criteria in under 500 words and 20 slides??
Also it was not stated in the brief if this slide show would be presented by a speaker who would be elorating on slide text or if the slides had to tell it all alone?
So while Chris was holidaying I had to make an executive decision on my own.
I assumed - no speaker - the whole story had to be told by the slide show.

Module5 assesment activity5_oh&s_presentation

PROBLEM: when I upload this powerpoint presentation into slideshare I lost all my animations - totally? Still trying to work out why and how to fix it??
However, during my research I discovered an OH&S presentation on slideshare which was very nearly perfect for this activity because: great colour scheme - excellent timing of slide movement - great text placement for readability and graphic elements - and most importantly, concise easily understood content - check it out:http://www.slideshare.com.net/collectivesuggestion/occupational-health-safety-presentation

Module 5 OH&S Learning activity 2 - workstation

My fanatastic studio
Just playing - creating a dream - wish it would come true!
the floor plan is published to the flicker stream at right......

Chris said: the brief was more about designing a custom workstation ie: the space in proximity to the computer rather than the studio itself?
My reply: Opps! Sorry Chris I got a bit carried away with my dream.....
Chris said: 9 fire extinguishers sounds excessive?
My reply: 9 fire extinguishers is not excessive if you have ever been trapped by fire before.......
Chris said: you are missing a security system?
My reply: On the paper plan I don't appear to, but! in my head plan there are 6 very large scary dogs laying around in the sun just waiting to eat intruders ........

Module 5 OH&S Learning activity 1

Possible Perils working on the computer Module 5 OH&S Learning activity 1 Problem with lower back pain and injury if: wrong type of chair no mechanism for lowering and raising chair to the right height feet not flat on floor back not in straight upright position, sitting on the edge of the chair, sitting cross legged no removable and adjustable armrests no contoured seat with rounded edges to distribute your weight no breathable fabric on chair do not do regular stretching exercises for body Problem with neck pain and injury if: use of wrong type of prescription glasses (like bifocals), no document holder to restrict neck movement. Screen’s height not adjusted parallel to eyesight Problem with pain and injury to wrists & fingers if: Striking the keys too hard. grip the mouse to tightly mouse is not close enough to the body. mouse not placed right in front of the shoulder, no wrist support for using mouse elbow and wrist not parallel to keyboard keyboard at wrong angle keyboard too far away do not do regular wrist exercise Problem with strain or damaged eyes if: too much glare from monitor from prolonged use unnecessary glare from not adjusting brightness and contrast of monitor sun glare on the monitor from windows, wrongly placed internal lighting reflections and glare no tinting coat on prescription glasses. computer screen is not between 18 and 24 inches away from face not blinking eyes enough to keep moist do not have regular eye testing More problems if: room temperature is too hot or too cold drink too much tea or coffee do not drink enough water stationery, cd's, files and other equipment not in easy reach distance do not take regular hourly breaks to exercise do not eat enough food for energy do not restrict hours of work per day continue working when stressed (physically or mentally) do not do alternate work tasks regularly away from computer station do not have sufficient leg room under desk do not have rounded corners and edges of desk do not keep the air around you clean do not adjust the refresh rate of your monitor to stop it flickering do not keep your monitor the screen clean do not keeping the screen and document holder at the same distance from your eyes do not service, repair or replace monitors that flicker or have inadequate clarity Added safety measured to be taken: keep spillable drinks away from equipment to avoid electrical short circuits and fires secure lockable and unlockable doors and windows of room and building fire extinguishers for paper flames and also electrical fires easily reached exit in case of fire alternate exit in other direction don't over load power points with lots of power boards keep all equipment connections in an orderly secure manner that is easily identified use adapters to save equipment from power surges install automatic circuit breaker on main power board to prevent equipment damage, electrocution and fires regularly service and update all electrical equipment to prevent exposure to unsafe emissions Must also maintain: strict time management well structured work routine other curricula activities not related to computer

Module 5 assesment activity 1

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Module 5 learning activity 1 - research

Answers to research questions on web  Question 1:Award wage for 17 year old Junior Web Developer is $27,015 (70% of adult), when turning 18 the wage will increase to $38,594 per annum. reference: from link pdf, p.31 Question 2: 10 desirable qualities for a successful junior developer in multimedia development studio 1. Project Skills Junior web developers should be able to assist in designing, coding, and testing of technical solutions. They should understand standard systems development and life cycle processes. They should be able to perform and execute the plans and coding standards as defined by management and work under deadlines. 2.Career Path Skills Junior web developers should have good communication skills. They should be able to listen and accept input from other team members as well as articulate their ideas and thoughts verbally and in written form. Basic database knowledge is necessary including the ability to write basic SQL statements, knowledge of relational database concepts and methods of database access. Use of programming languages will vary depending on the standard used at companies. However, they should demonstrate proficiency in HTML, basic XML and at least one scripting language. 3. Understanding web and software architecture It is important and they should have a basic understanding of object-oriented language including: classes, components, objects and interfaces. They should also understand the differences in various web browsers. 4.Professional Qualities Junior web developers work in a team environment. Therefore, they should be able to work well with others and be able to collaborate on ideas and projects. Because of the high stress environment, developers should have a positive outlook on their positions and strive to work in harmony. They should be able to work well with clients and implement their requirements to the best of their ability. 5.Organizational Responsibilities Some of the expectations for junior web developers are an ability to comply with all policies and procedures. They should be good with time management and also with organizational skills. They should be able to accurately complete and submit status reports in a timely manner. Reference: "Junior Web Developer Job Description" By Rose Broyles, eHow Contributor updated: May 21, 2010, 6. Assist Senior Designers First and foremost, junior designers assist senior designers. This can mean anything from replicating the senior designer's work to assisting on photo shoots to taking notes at meetings. Following the footsteps of a good senior designer is a fast way for junior designers to learn the design industry and develop her skills. 7. Small Projects While senior designers handle large projects such as homepages and magazine covers, junior designers are often assigned to related small projects such as website banners, affiliate advertisements and logo variations. These smaller projects are usually modeled off large-scale projects previously completed by senior designers. 8.Asset Optimization Coming up with innovative design is only the first part of a designer's job. Once a beautiful finished product is designed and approved, there is still plenty of work to be done. A web page, for example, has to be sliced into pieces and optimized for file size and space. Junior designers handle much of the grunt work when it comes to asset optimization. Though the work seems less than compelling, asset optimization thoroughly familiarizes junior designers with the production process. 9. Work with Copywriters Even on small projects, junior designers will work with copywriters to develop creative solutions. Copywriters come up with project ideas and work with designers on the actual copy in the ad. Cultivating good working relationships with copywriters is an important skill for a junior designer to develop; the further a junior designer advances, the more face time will be spent with copywriters and creative directors. 10. Corrections and Updates Once the main concept for a creative project has been designed and established by a senior designer, the project is often handed off to a junior designer for corrections and follow-up. Similarly, old advertisements or existing websites often need small updates, which are usually assigned to junior designers. Reference: "Junior Designer Job Description" By Carrie Thorson, eHow Contributor updated: June 1, 2010, Question 3: Staff required to run a large multimedia studio: Administration: 2 Receptionists Accounts Manager + data input person + junior The Manager + secretary + junior Production Market Researcher + junior Graphic Artist + team Journalist + team Web Manager + team Print manager + team Sales Sales Manager + team Advertising Advertising Manager + junior Maintenance IT person + junior Tea-boy/cleanerQuestion 4:Responsibilities of personnel in multimedia office: Administration - The Receptionists responsibilities are to meet and greet the people at the front desk, on the phone, and the internet and direct them to the right department or personnel and take messages and never stop smiling. The Accounts Manager's responsibilities are to maintain all sales and debtor ledgers and payroll in accordance with all current taxation laws to send to accountant. Provide a clear precise list of data to be entered by data input person. Instruct and teach the junior about all aspects of the manager's position. The Data input person's responsibilities are to key in all the information the accounts manager provides, and double check carefully. The Junior's responsibility is to do what the accounts manager says and gradually assumes parts of his work load as required. The Manager of the company's responsibilities are to oversee and co-ordinates all departments in his office maintaining company prospectus. Attend to all the major PR appearances where required for clients, potential clients, company advertising, potential expansion and assessing the opposition. The Manager is the visible face of Company and is also liable for all the employees actions and work production. The Manager's foremost responsibly is to assure that the company makes a profit! The Secretary's responsibilities are to screen all calls and visitors to the managers domain. Arrange the Managers timetable for everything, attends to all correspondence and prioritises before presenting to manager. The secretary is the Managers slave. The Junior is the secretary's slave. Production The Market Researcher's responsibility is to look for information as directed by the sales manager looking for new opportunities and the oppositions status. The researcher also gathers information for the production team for their individual clients to begin shaping their campaign so that they produce the appropriate product that is also new and innovative and the best on the market. The market researcher is also checking for copyright tags and possible infringements - keeping the team proper and legal. The junior's responsibility is to assist the market researcher in whatever task he is assigned - probably mostly scowling the net - while at the same time learning his masters job. The Graphic Artist responsibility is to organise the team with brainstorming sessions for each client project to arrive at the best possible designs. Each member of the team is allocated the job to which they are best suited creatively and must produce to a timetable that the leader has provided. The team leader is also responsible for keeping updated with new software, new techniques, market trends, and everything else to do with graphic design and passing it on to his team so they are able to stay at the top of the pack! The team, while doing everything directed by the leader, have a responsibility to present new and innovative ideas and creations to further their own careers' as well. The Journalist + team, the Web Manager + team and the Print manager + team's responsibilities are the same as the Graphic Artist and team's responsibilities. It is also the responsibility of all team leaders and managers to continually liaise and interact with each clients project to produce a time schedule for efficient production to obtain profitable monetary results for the company. All team leaders are also responsible for training and further education of their respective teams to ensure continual growth in creative productivity to maintain the viability of the company. Sales Sales Manager responsibility is to find new clients and sell them on becoming the companies new client. The manager is responsible for his team in the same manner as the production managers are, as are the team's responsibilities. Advertising The Advertising Manager's responsibilities is to make the company highly visible to the public to allow the Sales department to do their job. Therefore, the sales manager and the advertising manager must also continually liaise with each other to obtain maximum results. The advertising junior's responsibility is to learn how to do the manager's job. Maintenance The IT person is responsible for keeping all the technical equipment in all departments running smoothly by routine maintenance and fixing all problems as they occur. Maintain the in-house networking system. Also adhering to company policy in replacement and renewal of all equipment as scheduled. To do this job successfully it is also the IT persons responsibility to stay informed on all new developments in the information technology world. The IT juniors responsibility is to learn everything his senior knows and work as directed. The Tea-boy/cleaner's responsibilities are to keep everyone well fed and hydrated while disposing of their waste to maintain a clean and tidy environment for all employees to work happily in. It is the responsibility of all managers and team leaders to ensure all health and safety regulations and rules are adhered to by all employees, including themselves, to maintain healthy and happy people who will be more creative and productive while costing the company less money losses from 'sicky' days or workers compensation claims. (If I had read this question before the last one I would have made it a smaller studio!) Question 5 Advantages and disadvantages of sole operator to large studio: The Sole operator is the boss with no one telling them what to do - but the sole operator has to do everything themself. - it is hard to switch from the creative side of the brain to the other side for administration duties constantly and maintain continuity in your creative design. - then you have to learn the administration part first (another polytechnic course) - and you will have to continually stay updated with admin laws and taxes so more time wasted. The sole operator can work whenever they choose, day or night - but you have to have very strong discipline as there are lots of temptations to take you away from work - so you need more than just discipline you need a passion for your work to achieve results - but then passion can consume you and if you are a sole operator you have no boss to tell you when to stop and if you don't then we move into health and safety issues In a large studio there are lots of rules and regulations and all for good reasons - your health and safety first. ( well not really it is second to making money) As a sole operator you may make more money on a particular account than if you were working in a large studio because you have less overheads - but in a large studio you wage is set and regular every week on the dot with sick leave and superannuation included As a sole operator you have to take out your own insurance for sick days (expensive) and maintain your own superannuation (got to think of old age and no work) and you can't work creatively all the time because you have to spend a certain amount of time on advertising yourself to find those lucrative big accounts. -but as a sole operator you probably wont get the really big accounts because corporate companies want security for their dollar spent which they can only get with a big studio. The major problem with being a sole operator is that you can stagnate in your own little world - in a large studio you constantly amongst the creative talents of others which is very good for everyone as it promotes growth and adventure and you progress As a sole operator you have no one constantly ready on hand to offer critique or proofread your work...... Proofreading is the number one major MUST for every single part of the multimedia industry! The spell checker is not enough!!! Computer checks can miss things out of context, not pick up improper tenses and always forget to put 's' on the end of words that need them. And if the message is incorrect in anyway - you don't get paid! (And you can't get an insurance policy for that) I could go on forever here but the bottom line from my experience is: get a job in a big studio - its stable income, health safe, and creatively progressive. at the same time set yourself up at home as a sole operator to take on work that you have a particular passion for and keep it small. Over time the experience of both work situations will enable you to move higher in the larger studio situation to a manager spot - if that is where you want to go. - because as a manager you have more administration duties than creative So problems all round for both situations - I don't want to do either! Question 6 Organisations regarding digital media industry in Australia: 1. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is a statutory authority within the federal government portfolio of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. The ACMA is responsible for the regulation of: • broadcasting • the internet • radiocommunications • telecommunications. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for monitoring online content, including internet and mobile phone content, and enforcing Australia’s anti-spam law. Its role includes: • investigating complaints about online content and gambling services • encouraging the development of codes of practice for internet service providers and online content service providers and monitoring compliance with these codes • informing the community about internet safety issues, particularly those relating to children reference: _______________________________ 2. The Australian Broadcasting Authority The administration of the Broadcasting Services Act is the responsibility of the Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA). The Corporate Plan and Annual Reports of the ABA are available from this page. The latter contain detailed descriptions of the activities of the Authority, which cover the following broad areas:  ownership and control;  planning and licensing;  program content and complaint handling;  research into broadcasting issues;  online services; and  digital broadcasting and datacasting.  3.The Department of Communications, Information Technology and the Arts administers Commonwealth media and communications policy. 4.The Communications Law Centre is an independent, non-profit, public interest organisation specialising in media and communications law and policy. 5.The La Trobe University Online Media Program investigates the social and economic implications of Internet-based communications. 6.Network Insight is an RMIT University research group that deals with the future of media, telecommunications and on-line services with a focus on convergence in East Asia, especially Australia. reference: _____________________________________________________________ 7. AIMIA is the peak industry body for interactive content and digital media in Australia. AIMIA's membership represents the full spectrum of the digital media industry in Australia. Our members range from Australia's top digital media powerhouses, including the ABC, Sensis, Yahoo!, Google, BigPond, Foxtel, Disney, ninemsn and Fairfax Digital, to the country's best known interactive advertising, mobile content, web development, games design, and special effects companies. Members include developers, creators, producers, investors, service providers, educational institutions and students. AIMIA EXISTS TO: • Deliver services and initiatives that help AIMIA members grow their businesses in the Digital Media industry • Develop and grow the markets for AIMIA member's services and products • Identify and develop export opportunities in Digital Media for AIMIA members • Represent AIMIA members and the Digital Media industry nationally and internationally with government, education, media and the broader business community AIMIA MEMBER SERVICES INCLUDE: • Digital Media Industry development initiatives and activities • Business and consumer market development • Education and training • Industry standards, guidelines and codes of practice • Consumer education • Industry and consumer research • Export assistance (TradeStart) • International trade missions • Forums, seminars, and conferences • Networking events • Annual AIMIA Awards program • Government lobbying and policy development • Insurance and legal services reference: Question 7 specialist roles in multimedia industry: Mobile developer/designer iPad/ iPhone developer/ designer Web designer Web developer/programmer Database developer Social network consultant SEO consultant Web marketer Flash developer PHP developer Server administrator Copywriter/ Editor Illustrator Animator 2D Animator 3D eLearning developer eBusiness consultant reference: 2010 Cert3Media - Forum - Workplace Skills: OH&S/ Industry Knowledge (thanks Chris) Question 8 How to maintain industry skills: Number one is keep updated with the latest software you are using - which of course means you will be continually be updating your hardware to be able to use the software. check online tutorials for new software usage - (some listed in the next question) Sign up on line and link to sites that are continually showcasing all the new work, ideas, software, plug-ins, trends, legal bits.... all that is new - then experiment - continually experiment with your creativity to find the new and innovative if you find something you want to do and can't then maybe sign up for another learning course and always keep a check on the opposition! Question 9 Learning resources for Web Design (and all free): http://www.adobe.com/training/recources/ (because this is the software I am using) http://www.odannyboy.com/video5/ (excellent list of sites links for everything) http://www.smartwebby.com/free_tutorials/ (tuts for everything too) http://www.smashingmagazine.com/2008/12/15/10-useful-techniques-to-improve-your-user-interface-design/ http://www.psd.tutsplus.com/articles/web/50-totally-free-lessons-in-graphic-design-theory/ If I wanted an accredited certificate in Web Design I would sign up for Cert IV - ? Learning resources for Web Authoring: (all free) http://w3schools.com/ http://www.webdesign.about.com/ http://www.htmlcodetutorial.com/ http://www.e-learningcenter.com/free_html_course.htm If I wanted an accredited certificate in web authoring I would complete the Polytechnic Cert IV Info Technology with Henry that I am already signed up for? Question 10 How I would keep updated with industry trends: Well I have bookmarked some special ones you gave us, smashing magazine and sitepoint for everything, panetone for colour trends, hongiat and cssshowcase for more of the latest. I googled 'latest trends' and found some more interesting ones, which you I am sure you have already seen, http://www.webtrecker.com http://www.webdesignledger.com/tips/web-design-trends-for-2010 http://www.readwriteweb.com/trends/ ......... and there are heaps in the list so I would just be checking out a few any time I got bored with myself? Question 11 Employability Skills 1.Communication that contributes to productive and harmonious relations between employees and customers Listening and understanding Speaking clearly and directly Writing to the needs of the audience Negotiating responsively Reading independently Empathising Using numeracy effectively Understanding the needs of internal and external customers Persuading effectively Establishing and using networks Being assertive Sharing information Speaking and writing in languages other than English 2.Teamwork that contributes to productive working relationships and outcomes Working with people of different ages, gender, race, religion or political persuasion Working as an individual and as a member of a team Knowing how to define a role as part of a team Applying teamwork skills to a range of situations, e.g. futures planning, crisis problem solving Identifying the strengths of team members Coaching, mentoring and giving feedback 3.Problem solving that contributes to productive outcomes Developing creative, innovative solutions Developing practical solutions Showing independence and initiative in identifying problems and solving them Solving problems in teams Applying a range of strategies to problem solving Using mathematics including budgeting and financial management to solve problems Applying problem-solving strategies across a range of areas Testing assumptions taking the context of data and circumstances into account Resolving customer concerns in relation to complex project issues Loyalty Commitment Honesty and integrity Reliability Personal presentation Commonsense Positive self-esteem Sense of humour Balanced attitude to work and home life Enthusiasm 4. Initiative and enterprise that contribute to innovative outcomes Adapting to new situations Developing a strategic, creative, long-term vision Being creative Identifying opportunities not obvious to others Translating ideas into action Generating a range of options Initiating innovative solutions 5. Planning and organising that contribute to long-term and short-term strategic planning Managing time and priorities – setting timelines, coordinating tasks for self and with others Being resourceful Taking initiative and making decisions Adapting resource allocations to cope with contingencies Establishing clear project goals and deliverables Allocating people and other resources to tasks Planning the use of resources including time management Participating in continuous improvement and planning processes Developing a vision and a proactive plan to accompany it Predicting – weighing up risk, evaluating alternatives and applying evaluation criteria Collecting, analysing and organising information Understanding basic business systems and their relationships 6. Self-management that contributes to employee satisfaction and growth Having a personal vision and goals Evaluating and monitoring own performance Having knowledge and confidence in own ideas and vision Articulating own ideas and vision Taking responsibility 7. Learning that contributes to ongoing improvement and expansion in employee and company operations and outcomes Managing own learning Contributing to the learning community at the workplace Using a range of mediums to learn – mentoring, peer support, networking, information technology (IT), courses Applying learning to ‘technical’ issues (e.g. learning about products) and ‘people’ issues (e.g. interpersonal and cultural aspects of work) Having enthusiasm for ongoing learning Being willing to learn in any setting – on and off the job Being open to new ideas and techniques Being prepared to invest time and effort in learning new skills Acknowledging the need to learn in order to accommodate change 8. Technology that contributes to effective execution of tasks Having a range of basic IT skills Applying IT as a management tool Using IT to organise data Being willing to learn new IT skills Having the occupational health and safety knowledge to apply technology Having the appropriate physical capacity reference: Employability skills for the future, Commonwealth Government, 2002, pp. 46-7.;