4Minds Technology Blog

Anything and everything to do with technology

Timeline for your website

This article demonstrates how I used the Timeline project from http://simile.mit.edu/timeline/ to implement a simple project calendar using dynamic data.

This Timeline component goes far beyond my expectations.  It is completely extensible, yet this tutorial will only cover a very small portion of what I implemented for my own needs.
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Twitter Etiquette

If you’re up on the latest trends in social media on the web, you’ve no doubt heard of Twitter, the site that asks you “What are you doing?”.  Well, some people take this question a little too literally, and others abuse the hell out of the system.  So I’ve put together a few do’s and don’ts in regards to using Twitter in a friendly manner.

  • DO: Post relevant topics to your local area or questions for others around you to answer.
  • DON’T: Follow people because they have a cute profile picture.  That’s creepy, dude!
  • DON’T: Use Twitter as your personal blog. If you want to post things for others to read only, WRITE A BLOG, DAMN IT!!!
  • DO: Make an attempt to respond to those who acknowledge your presence by asking you a question.
  • DON’T: Use Twitter as a chat client and post 1-on-1 messages in the public timeline in a rapid fire format.
  • DO: Follow people who have similar interests, and even introduce yourself or let the person know that you found one of their previous posts interesting.
  • DON’T: Let the world know when you’re taking a trip to the restroom, or describe it when you come back.
  • DON’T: Ask people for photos.  How old are you again?
  • DON’T: Lure people to pornographic websites.

I know, I know, just who do I think I am making up this set of rules? Well, I’m Brian (Webguyatwork) and I jumped on the Twitter bandwagon in June of 2008 and have personally witnessed all of the above “DON’Ts” in the public timelines.  I’ve also noticed others address these in their responses, so I know I’m not the only one who’s irritated by them.

Some folks probably won’t agree with all of these points, others will be just as irritated by them and will be willing to add to the list.  If you care to have your points listed, reply below or simply “Twitter Me” with your bullet point and I’ll add it.

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    Twitter ID: @webguyatwork
    Tracking since: 07/21/2008

    Current Followers: 165
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