Free Technology Newsletter - From The Desk of Alan K'necht

April 7, 2005

In this issue:

Product Reviews
Google Maps - an esential tool for web analytics
Happening at K'nechtology

Product Reviews

Google Maps

In case you didn't check out Google Maps, that I mentioned in my last newsletter or if you gave it a look and decided to pass on it, I'm here to tell you it's time to give it another look.

Over the past few weeks Google has been slowly releasing various iterations with numerous improvements. So within 6 weeks they've gone from a great tool with a horrible user interface to an amazing tool with an easy to use interface.

Gone is the annoying multiple search options. You can simply type in an address to see a map of the location (Canada and US only). To conduct a local search for services (i.e. pizza, hotel, etc.), simply enter the phrase "hotels near ….." and they'll be presented on the screen with details down the side of the screen.

Need directions to or from the address click on the "Directions" link at the top of the screen for direction. A further enhancement released today now allows you to switch between the graphical map and a satellite image of the same grid (if an image is available). If a satellite image is available, the word "Satellite" will appear in the upper right corner.

Enjoy, but a word of caution. Directions from Google Maps tend to be the easiest to follow, but not necessarily the fastest way to get from here to there.

Google Maps - maps.google.com

What's Happening at K'nechtology?

As the world of Search Engine Optimization continues to develop, so does my expertise in it as well. My efforts during the past few years are now being recognized and I've been asked to present at several conferences in the coming months. These conferences include the following:

Search Engine Strategies - Toronto, Ontario May 4-5 - SES is the premier conference for search engine optimization and search engine marketing. Several SES are held throughout the year in various parts of the world. If you're interested in SES I highly recommend this conference.

WebVisions - Portland Or - July 15 - WebVisions 2005 is an all-day conference that will be held at the Oregon Convention Center. This year's theme is "convergence-the integration of the Web on handheld devices" I will be conducting an information session on optimization of content for search engines and use of standards compliant code to support convergent devices.

Closing Thoughts

For more information on any of the topics or products referenced, please feel free to contact K'nechtology Inc. directly. Just to remind you that my services and the services of K'nechtology Inc. are always available to help you with your technology strategies, search engine optimization, IT project management, Internet/web development needs and software reviews. Subscribe to future newsletters or find links to previous newsletters, columns and product reviews at news.knechtology.com