The bright future of Internet

With the COM 125 Introduction to the Internet class wrapping up this week, I wanna do a short recap on the Internet. But before that, here’s a video on the future of Internet – Web 3.0 supported by STI International: http://www.sti2.org. With Web 2.0 created and the rise of Social media, the future for the Internet is indeed bright. Estimating to bloom from 2010-2020, Web 3.0 known as the Semantic Web will bring much definition to how the search engines defines our search in databases, thus making the Internet more human-like.

In·ter·net

noun

a vast computer network linking smaller computer networks worldwide (usually preceded by the ). The Internet includes commercial, educational, governmental, and other networks, all of which use the same set of communications protocols.

Here are some of the dates and important landmarks in the history of Internet:

1969, Aparnet

1972: CYCLADES

1974: The beginning of TCP/IP

1978: The Bulletin Board System (BBS)

1984: Domain Name System (DNS)

1989: The proposal for the World Wide Web

1991: First web page created

1995: Commercialization of the internet

1995: Geocities, the Vatican goes online, and JavaScript

2000: The bubble bursts

2001: Wikipedia is launched

2003: MySpace becomes the most popular social network

2004: Web 2.0

2004: Social Media and Digg

2004: “The” Facebook open to college students

2005: YouTube – streaming video for the masses

2006: Twitter gets twittering

2007: Major move to place TV shows online

2007: The iPhone and the Mobile Web

2008: “Internet Election”

2009: ICANN policy changes

Well, of course for more in-depth information on the history of the internet, check out: The History of the Internet in a Nutshell

 

The Future of Journalism

Based on the previous blog entry discussing on the influence of the Net on Politics and the dark side of the Internet, the next area of focus is on the impact of Journalism and the Internet.

The book on The Net Delusion: The Dark Side of Internet Freedom also brought to point another rising area on the Internet, the rise of mass journalism.

In the past, journalism used to only be a niche area specific to professional journalists, however, now with the rise of the Internet, the concept of journalism has indeed changed. Now, anyone can be an amateur reporter or journalist with the medium of the Internet through blogging sites such as WordPress, Tumblr, blogger, not forgetting the powerful micro-blogging tool – twitter that allows users to post bite-size info on the latest updates.

An interesting news company called The Real News Network provides the real deal of news out there.

TRNN Mission:

The Real News Network is a television news and documentary network focused on providing independent and uncompromising journalism.

Our staff, in collaboration with courageous journalists around the globe, will investigate report and debate stories on the critical issues of our times.

We are viewer supported and do not accept advertising, government or corporate funding.

What’s Real About TRNN:

We won’t blindly follow wire services or official press releases that attempt to set the news agenda. We will cover the big stories of the day, but we will broaden the definition of what’s important.

The Real News will investigate, report and debate stories that help us understand the critical issues of our time.

The movements for the rights of working people, women, children, immigrants, indigenous people, for freedom of religion and conscience, for moral and spiritual values and for peace and against racism are news. The health of our planet will be a story, day after day.

Below is an interesting video by The Real News Network (TRNN.com) on an interview with the writers of Will the Last Reporter Please Turn out the Lights: The Collapse of Journalism and How to Fix It, Robert W. McChesney & Victor Pickard.

 

Caught on the Net

In the present times, with the recent terrorism cases and riots breaking out in towns from the case of the London riots to the Iranian protests that took to the streets in June 2009 a few years back, the Internet has been a great immense force behind Politics and its dictators.

Be it either shedding a negative or positive light on Politics with unintended consequences that could devastate innocent lives, The Internet has indeed breeched the gap between the news media and its reality in the world. Now, people get to know the ‘ugly truth’ of what is happening out there through Twitter and social media. Everyone who has access to the Internet now has the ability to visit the real world out there especially with the rise of video sharing community sites like Youtube.

However, the Internet if harnessed rightly with the right tools and the right message has the power to significantly help many lives; one great example would be the Obama’s campaign and his understanding of the power of social media.

On the other hand, the Internet has the dark side as well. One interesting book written by Evgeny Morozov provides an analysis on the Dark Side of Internet Freedom. Titled The Net Delusion: The Dark Side of Internet Freedom, this book gives a great perspective on the power of Politics with the use of the Internet.

Here’s a short review by Nytimes:

As Evgeny Morozov demonstrates in “The Net Delusion,” his brilliant and courageous book, the Internet’s contradictions and confusions are just becoming visible through the fading mist of Internet euphoria. Morozov is interested in the Internet’s political ramifications. “What if the liberating potential of the Internet also contains the seeds of depoliticization and thus dedemocratization?” he asks. The Net delusion of his title is just that. Contrary to the “cyberutopians,” as he calls them, who consider the Internet a powerful tool of political emancipation, Morozov convincingly argues that, in freedom’s name, the Internet more often than not constricts or even abolishes freedom.

Two decades of inane patter about the magical powers of a technology of mere convenience had transformed Twitter — once the domain of “a bunch of bored hipsters who had an irresistible urge to share their breakfast plans,” as Morozov mordantly writes — into an engine of political revolution. Or as Jon Stewart put it, mocking the belief in the Internet’s ability to transform intractable places like Iraq and Afghanistan: “Why did we have to send an army when we could have liberated them the same way we buy shoes?”

For more information, check out these links below:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/02/06/books/review/Siegel-t.html?pagewanted=all

http://www.economist.com/node/17848401

 

Motion Graphics FTW

is one of my favourite motion graphics sites that I was talking about a few entries before. This site is one of the few that gives me a latest updates on the motion graphics, film and animation scene. Motionographer states that its purpose as this:

Motionographer (pronounced like “oceanographer”) seeks to be a source of inspiration for filmmakers, animators and designers by sharing:

• outstanding work from studios, freelancers and students
• feature stories that give readers a closer look at influential studios and individuals
• commentary that sparks discussion or introspection about the creative process
• miscellaneous items that Motionographer contributors find interesting

When browsing this site, you used to be able to visit the top-notch companies that Motionographer has compiled and listed for the best works on the section called ‘Cream’ – The Cream O’ the Crop. But there have been much changes as they have decided to shut this section down due to the exponential growth of many up and coming promising media film and animation companies. With such a great amount of new work to showcase, it just simply is too taxing and complicated for the Motionographer’s team

Well, it’s not sad news, in fact, it’s quite the opposite, this just means that there is definitely a growth in this industry and thus more promising career opportunities for budding animators and motion graphics designers.

Just wanna show u some of the interesting awesome work by some companies, in no apparent rank order, just simply nice work to share with everyone.

This is the site where you get some of the latest entertainment and mutlimedia on the Internet with awesome work from great animation and film companies!

Everyone knows MTV, here is a brand new series of international MTV idents starting in the month of April, 2^nd this year.

‘Buck and Sehsucht for MTV’ Posted by Elliot Blanchard

For more info and awesome works, do check out http://motionographer.com/

 

Better safe than sorry!

Are you protected against the attack of viruses and worms infiltrating your computer system via multiple routes?

Well, just recently, my friends and I have noticed this peculiar folder in my thumbdrive when I was transferring certain files during our project discussion. It’s strangely named ‘My Girlfriend’s Sexy Photos’. Hmmm, I thought I had already eradicated it with a scan of Microsoft Security Essentials. Why is it back again? That kinda scared me, I had no clue what type of a file it was.

The first time I actually noticed it, I was actually so curious that I opened the folder. However, when I opened it, there seem to be nothing threatening except for a Facebook link or something and some external file. Of course, I didn’t click on anything.

So then I did a scan and it didn’t show that file as anything threatening, no worm, no trojan, no whatsoever. Hmmm, so all I did was delete the file from my thumbdrive and cleared the trash.

But this time, it was back, I had no clue why, then I did a scan with Norton security anti-virus software and another with Microsoft Security Essentials, hoping to eradicate it for good.

Well, next time I might not get away so luckily, so I’m hoping whoever reads this blog entry will take extra precaution when navigating around the Internet and using devices to transfer and save files.

Here are the ‘TOP10 TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST COMPUTER VIRUSES’ from http://tips4pc.com

There are many ways to protect your computer from nasty viruses invading. Protecting your computer is an number one concern for every computer user on earth. I do not know anyone that wants to have their computer crash due to a virus invasion. Here are 10 ways to protect your computer and keep your files and data safe.

1. Learn about viruses

The first thing that I recommend is to research and become knowledgeable about viruses. How can you protect your computer from viruses if you don’t even know what they are. Here are some previous tutorials I have written about viruses. See What is a Virus and how do I know if I have one? and What is the difference between a virus, spyware, Malware, and adware? How can you protect your computer from viruses if you don’t know what it is?

2. Arm yourself with the best Anti-virus software to suit your needs.

Not everyone can get away with using free Anti-virus software because it depends what you do on your computer. It depends on factors such as if you download files or not, if you open email attachments, and if you surf suspicious websites. See my reviews for the best Virus Removal Software. Lets face it, if you do not have protection against viruses installed on your computer, you will without a doubt, get a virus within the first hour of surfing the internet. It is that easy. For years I would remove a virus from my dads computer at least once a year, until finally I realized that he needed a paid Anti-virus program. He wasn’t good with computers and if a windows popped up and said he needed to take a scan, he would just do it. He would just presume it was the program I had installed to protect his computer. Now I have Avast on his computer and there has not been one problem since. I bought the Internet security version so it has full protection. It never asks him to do anything and just works in the background.

3. Regular Updates

Having a great Anti-virus program installed on your computer to protect your computer from viruses is great, however if you do not regularly update the virus definitions, then the program is useless. New viruses are produced daily and this is why we constantly have to update the viruses definitions and stay ahead of the bad guys. Avast Internet Security simply updates by itself and just tells me when it is done.

4. Downloading

When surfing the internet avoid websites that contain illegal software downloads, sexual references, free screensavers, cracks or serials, etc. I am sure you get the picture. If you go near these sites you are immediately asking for trouble. Some other websites that you should stay away from include foreign websites where you cannot understand the language on them. This is because you cannot tell what is on the website.

5. Windows Updates

Always update Windows when protecting your computer. These updates contain security updates that will help in your fight against viruses. If you do not perform regular Windows updates you are leaving your computer in a vulnerable state. You can simple check to see if your computer needs updates by going to he start menu and typing in “windows update”. See the screen shot below. You can also view recent Windows update historyso you can be in control of the whole situation.

6. Opening Emails

Be careful when opening emails. There are obvious emails that you know you shouldn’t open, however what about the ones you get from people you know? What if your friend has a virus and it is spreading itself through emails? An email cannot be important enough to risk getting a virus. Delete the email and send a fresh email to your friend asking them if they actually did send you the email. It is better to be safe than sorry.

You can also create a whitelist so only certain emails get through. You will still have to be careful though, as you do not know what security the sender has installed on their computer. It’s like driving on the road, you need to watch how others are driving to stay safe.

7. Change your settings to protect your computer from viruses

If you are really serious about protecting your computer you can change your email settings and receive text emails only. You can also disable the ability to open email attachments. Virus travel in HTML enabled emails and file attachments. They cannot travel in text email messages. I know this sounds very boring, however, I would rather be boring and protect my computer from viruses.

8. Peer to Peer file sharing – ways to protect your computer

Do not use peer to peer (p2p) file sharing programs. These include programs such as Limewire, Bearshare, Gnutella, Morpheus, Torrents, etc. These program let you download files from other computer users connected to their program network. You have no way of knowing what you are actually downloading until it is on your computer. Even if you share files from a cd from a friend, it may have a virus. Protecting your computer from viruses is the most important priority for you and you do not want to risk your computer safety just because you trust your friend.

9. Do not download files from websites

Again, there is no way of knowing what you are downloading. The file can appear to be named like the file you want, however it could be anything. Most of the time, this is how a virus is unleashed, it usually seems like a harmless, familiar object. If you are looking for a driver for a certain brand of computer then make sure you are getting the download from the genuine website. Many websites on the Internet offer free driver downloads, however, many of them contain viruses. Everything is not what it seems, so be very careful.

10. Have Firewall Protection

Make sure you have a firewall enabled on your computer. Windows comes with an inbuilt firewall or you can use a third party firewall program like Zone Alarm. Either way, make sure the firewall is on…To check the Windows Firewall go to the security settings in your control panel.

If you are careful and are serious about learning how to protect your computer from viruses, it is possible to stay safe. My top 10 tips will help you keep your computer running smoothly, and virus free.

Even though, these numerous precautionary measures might seem to be troublesome but it is worthwhile, one simple step could indeed save your computer from terrible infection.

Better safe than sorry!

For more info, check out this link: http://tips4pc.com/top_10_computer_tips/top-10-tips-to-protect-yourself-against-computer-viruses.htm

 

Introducing Motion Graphics Design

{Great concepts and Great execution = Great works of art}

Just wanted to share some of the animations I created using editing softwares such as After Effects. Some of the other softwares I use in my animations are softwares like Illustrator and Photoshop. Making a 5 mins animation video will take me forever, so hopefully after watching the tutorials you can understand why animations are usually only 25 to 30s max.

Check out the tutorial link here if you would like to try it out:

3D compositing tutorial video from creativecow.net:

http://library.creativecow.net/articles/kramer_andrew/3dcompositing/3dcompositing.html

Another animation video I made using basic animation of effects, plug-ins and simple text in After Effects

I must say that animation skills will take some time to learn and years to fully master but with the help of such tutorials, the process will be much easier.

If you are interested in what I do and love doing, check out my showreel here:

 

Learning beyond the four walls of the classroom

Learning has and is always an on-going process in life. No matter how old you are, learning is always an integral part of your life. If you had no ability to learn, you would not be able to function in your daily life. From young, you learnt to walk, to talk, to eat. One of my favourite quotes from Andy Stanley states that ‘Learning assumes an attitude of submission’. With the invent of the internet, we are now able to experience a new mode of learning through the virtual classroom.

I would say that I’ve never thought e-learning was anything but boring and methodical. That was because school made me feel that way, that period of time during the SARS case, was the first time e-learning was practiced nationwide. It was nothing but a methodical practice of homework after more homework via online sites. From then onwards, I always felt dreadful even when I heard the word ‘E-learning’.

However, during my poly years, my perspective to e-learning has changed entirely. It started when I was in my freshman year in NYP studying Motion Graphics and Broadcast Design. Back then, my cohort was the first batch and our course was based on learning new skills and softwares as motion graphics designers. Already in the start of the first semester, we were given loads of projects and deadlines that were back to back. With the lecturers insisting that they were not gonna spoon feed their students, that period really felt like we were thrown into the deep waters to survive on our own. Then, the sink or swim mentality struck us, and we really had to self-study and learn from tutorials and any resources we could find. However, through that, I really learnt great life skills that could not be taught in books. Thus, I am really thankful for that period of time that changed my perspective towards e-learning.

Now, thanks to e-learning, I treasure the Internet much more and those who have made information so accessible. Now there is no need for learning to just take place within the four walls of a classroom. Learning is no longer fixed to a certain place, it is no longer bounded to just paper and books,

Just wanted to share some of the sites I used to frequent on updates of the latest motion graphics design and tutorials. If you have ever wondered how movies and TVCs did their visual effects and cool compositing, do visit the links below.

http://motionographer.com/

http://www.videocopilot.net/

http://www.creativecow.net/

 

5 Keys To Successful E-Marketing Concept

Now that we touched base on business, we can move on to understanding e-marketing and e-commerce. Nowadays, businesses require diverse platforms for the company to thrive and bloom. And technology has greatly aided in the success of companies. From having virtual platforms that serve the needs of clients and customers through the corporate websites and social media sites to the use of blog shops that become part of the entrepreneurship experience, technology has played a vital role in bringing companies to greater heights.

Here are 5 Keys To Successful E-Marketing Concept by emarketings.org

E-marketing Intention: You must have a clear intention of what you want to create for yourself. Your goals need to be something you’re passionate about that you’re willing not to go without. Visualize your intent and mind map it for success.

E-marketing Attention: Placing your attention on what you want and focusing on the end vision is key. Most people are so focused on what’s not working, how little they have in their wallets and that’s what you’re giving energy and attention to. Remember if you have children you give them attention, attention = LOVE – Most people are in love with being broke because their attending to it all day long.

Energy for E-marketing: Everything on this planet is energy. We are energy in a larger field of energy. Get fired up about what your creating. You will be a magnet to all the things you desire when you radiate this kind of energy.

Belief for E-marketing: You must have an unbending belief in yourself, your product and industry for E-marketing. The most important belief is in Yourself. When you have that, you are unstoppable in any business you’re in. Know for yourself that you are in the process of creating massive success for yourself.

Growth of E-marketing: You must be growth driven. You must constantly be immersing yourself in that which empowers you. This world is constantly evolving and growing. What worked for you a year ago is obsolete. We must constantly be learning and growing. Learning new ways to your E-marketing continuously and constantly working on your own personal development is also critical.

Despite these tips, I would still think it’s always important to go back to the basics and consider the business concepts as a whole and not just solely based on e-marketing. Remember to look at the big picture.

For more information on e-marketing, do visit http://www.emarketings.org/internet-marketing/5-keys-lead-to-successful-e-marketing-concept.html

 

When it comes down to business

When it comes down to business, literally business and commerce, I recall reading a book not long ago called Good to Great by Jim Collins. In this book, the writer and his team did an analysis and comparison on what differentiated the great companies from the good.

This was a sequel written after his book ‘built to last’ which focused around companies who was for the most part, already great. That caused Bill Meehan, the managing director of the San Francisco office of McKinsey & company to bring up the need to change focus of research towards companies that progressed from good to great as well.

The first sentence that compels me to read on was the simple liner that said ‘Good is the enemy of great.’ It said how ‘we don’t have great schools, principally because we have good schools. We don’t have great governments, principally because we have good government.’

But is good really enough? How exactly can companies go from good to great?

Throughout this book, I always remember the analogy of the bus ride and the bus driver where the bus driver (CEO of the company) has to make the choice to keep the passengers or allow them to leave when they are meant to board another bus elsewhere.

Here’s a snippet of the analogy on Chapter 3, pg 41:

The executives who ignited the transformations from good to great did not first figure out where to drive the bus and then get people to take it there. No, they first got the right people on the bus (and the wrong people off the bus) and then figured out where to drive it. They said in essence, “Look, I don’t really know where we should take this bus. But I know this much: If we get the right people on the bus, the right people in the right seats, and the wrong people off the bus, then we’ll figure out how to take it someplace great.”

The good to great leaders understood three simple truths.

1. If you begin with “who,” rather than “what”, you can more easily adapt to a changing world.

2. If you have the right people on the bus, the problem of how to motivate and manage people largely goes away.

3. If you have the wrong people, it doesn’t matter whether you discover the right direction, you still won’t have a great company.

GREAT VISION WITHOUT GREAT PEOPLE IS IRRELEVANT.

This book unveiled the secrets to the difference between the good and great, the survivors and the victors. It shared about the flywheel concept that captured the process of going from good to great.

The good to great companies that were studied in the ‘Good to Great’ research all had one common factor; they had an understanding of what they can (and cannot) be the best at, through the Hedgehog Concept. They found the X-factor that lies in the intersection of the three circles, where true potential for great achievements lies. And they understood that “focusing solely on what you can potentially do better than any other organization is the only path to greatness.” This hedgehog principle could be applied to any organizations big or small.

These are just some snippets of what you can find in this book. A great in-depth study was done and it was amazing to find out such interesting truths about the success for companies. If you are interested to find out more, you can always head to the national library or the bookstore. Or you could borrow the book from me. Or what’s better, why not just download the pdf.

 

Pinterest Facts

Here’s another nicely designed infographic on the facts collected about Pinterest.