Slim Kiwi

December 30, 2008

Mac Efficiency Software Tools and Plugins That I Use

by Alastair Halliday

We’re always looking for ways to spend less time doing mundane tasks on our computers and spend more time actually doing quality client work. I’ve listed a few of the top pieces of software that I use to increase efficiency, that are part of my daily workflow. This may also make a good list if you want a few more office expenses before the end of the year. Please don’t be fooled by some of these products that come with a “free” price tag. Some items that are marked as free I would happily pay $60 to $150 for, and most of the products that do cost money come with a free trial period. Don’t be afraid to download them and try them out. We don’t get paid by ANY of these companies to talk about them - but I would understand if you got that impression from reading some of my reviews.

Read "Mac Efficiency Software Tools and Plugins That I Use"

November 13, 2008

My tedious but fruitful transition from using a mouse to using a tablet

by Alastair Halliday

Increasing discomfort in my wrist led me to research and consider using a tablet and stylus as a replacement for my mouse. Making this type of transition after using a mouse since my childhood days was significant, so I've tried to provide an account of some of the issues, problems and benefits that I've found come with making the transition. They include the following:

• The motivation: purely ergonomics
• The purchase: Intuos3, 6" x 11"
• Features
• Using the tablet with multiple displays
• Precision stylus handling (why I can't use the tip of the stylus to "click")
• Physical setup and the tablet adjustment period (patience, my friends)
• Why I would never go back to a mouse

Read "My tedious but fruitful transition from using a mouse to using a tablet"