State of the Geek 2009: Behind the Scenes & Geekery
Recent Site Updates and Clarifications
Many visitors have observed numerous alterations to the website recently. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of these changes and address any resulting uncertainty.
What Has Changed?
A significant overhaul of the platform’s underlying infrastructure has been completed. This involved migrating to a more robust and scalable server environment.
Furthermore, the website’s content delivery network (CDN) was upgraded. This enhancement is designed to improve loading speeds for users globally.
Key Improvements & Benefits
- Faster Loading Times: The new CDN significantly reduces latency.
- Enhanced Stability: The upgraded server infrastructure provides greater reliability.
- Improved Scalability: The platform can now handle increased traffic more effectively.
- Better User Experience: These changes collectively contribute to a smoother browsing experience.
These improvements were implemented to ensure a consistently positive experience for all users. We are committed to providing a fast and reliable service.
Addressing Common Questions
Some users have reported minor visual discrepancies following the updates. These are typically related to browser caching and can be resolved by clearing your browser’s cache and cookies.
If you continue to experience issues, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. They are available to assist with any technical difficulties.
We appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of improvement. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to refine the platform.
Introducing the How-To Geek Writing Team
For some time, questions have arisen regarding the authorship of our articles and the identities of the individuals contributing to this site. This article aims to clarify this, presenting illustrative depictions of the two writers responsible for the content you enjoy daily.
Mysticgeek is primarily responsible for the majority of our software reviews. He also creates the popular Friday Fun articles published each week. He is a valued member of the team and has recently been promoted to Associate Editor.
This advancement will not disrupt the current workflow; in fact, improvements are anticipated. With Mystic assisting in editorial duties, more time becomes available to develop exciting new features for How-To Geek.
Future Developments and Writer Opportunities
The expansion of our team may necessitate the recruitment of additional part-time writers. Mystic will oversee the quality control process, ensuring all submissions adhere to our established standards.
- If you possess a strong understanding of our writing style and are interested in contributing, please contact us at geek@howtogeek.com.
- Explain why your skills and expertise make you a suitable candidate.
We look forward to potentially welcoming new talent to the How-To Geek team. Your passion for technology and ability to convey information clearly are highly valued.
Holiday-Specific Logos Implemented!
Visitors to the website during holiday periods may have observed a change in the site logo. We've begun the practice of replacing the standard logo with a unique illustration tailored to each day's celebration.
As an example, the logo used for Easter a short time ago was as follows:
Another instance was the logo created for Valentine's Day:
For those unable to browse the site on specific holidays, a complete archive of these logos is now available on the wiki. This is an initiative we intend to continue, as it provides enjoyment, and the creation of these illustrations is personally fulfilling.
How-To Geek's Approach to Software Evaluations
A question has been raised regarding our existing review practices.
To prevent congestion within the primary site content with paid applications, and to avoid necessarily endorsing commercial software, a dedicated section for reviews of non-free software has been established. This new area will feature comprehensive screenshot tours presented in our signature, easily digestible Geek Style, allowing users a thorough preview before making a purchase.
A Focus on Clarity and Substance
We aim to differentiate ourselves from many other review platforms by eschewing cluttered layouts and unsubstantiated claims. Our intention is to deliver insightful evaluations detailing the actual functionality of each software package.
While this section is newly launched, user review functionality is forthcoming. Soon, you will be able to share your own experiences and opinions alongside our assessments.
Our Vision
The ultimate objective is to create the most informative and reliable review resource available. Below are examples of reviews that have already been completed:
- Registry Mechanic 8
- Acronis True Image Home 2009
- McAfee Security Suite 2009
....Explore the new software reviews section, accessible via the Reviews link in the site navigation. Your feedback is welcome; please don't hesitate to contact us with any suggestions or comments.
How-To Geek Now Features an Arcade with Flash Games!
Our Friday Fun series, which highlights games that offer a welcome distraction from work, has proven quite popular with our readers. Recognizing the appeal of engaging, geek-focused flash games, we've launched a dedicated games section.
This new section will showcase only the most entertaining and geeky games we can locate and legally embed on our site.
Featured Games
From the available options, two games have quickly become personal favorites, consuming considerable time and providing hours of enjoyment.
- GemCraft: A captivating strategy game.
- Light Bot: A puzzle game centered around programming logic.
These games, and many more, can be found on the How-To Geek Arcade.
Access the arcade easily by clicking the new "Games" link in the site's main menu. We are committed to expanding this collection.
Expect frequent updates with a wider variety of games in the coming weeks, so be sure to check back often.
How-To Geek Gear: Unique Items for Tech Enthusiasts
For quite some time, we have received numerous requests from our readership to feature the How-To Geek logo on apparel. Consequently, a new online store has been launched, offering a range of items—including shirts and other merchandise—emblazoned with a distinctive geek-themed logo.
However, the most significant aspect of this venture is that 100% of the profits derived from the sale of How-To Geek branded merchandise will be contributed to the Red Cross.
Our intention is not to generate revenue from these sales. In fact, operating the store incurs costs for us. This is acceptable, however, as long as the proceeds benefit a worthy organization. Given the recent increase in natural disasters, this provides a means of supporting the Red Cross and their vital work, all while sporting a fun got geek? t-shirt.
Alternatively, you can enjoy your beverages from a "got geek?" mug, much like the one I am currently using.
Explore the How-To Geek Gear section to acquire your own geek-themed items. The "Gear" link is also conveniently located in the site's main menu for easy access.
Future Developments
Significant advancements are planned for the coming period, and we are excited to report substantial progress is now being made towards realizing these objectives. Regular updates will continue to be provided to keep you informed.
Furthermore, those who wish can now follow our activities and receive updates via Twitter.
Expanding Our Reach
- Twitter Integration: A new channel for announcements and real-time updates has been established.
- Continued Momentum: We are maintaining a strong pace of development and innovation.
- Future Plans: Ambitious projects are underway, designed to enhance our offerings.
The team is dedicated to delivering on these commitments and appreciates your continued support. We believe these initiatives will be beneficial to all stakeholders.