Looking Back on 10 Years of Web Design

Looking Back on 10 Years of Web Design Web design has changed a lot over the past decade, and so has our web app, MindMeister, which was launched in February 2007 as one of the first software-as-a-service tools. Now, 10 years later, MindMeister has more than 6 million users worldwide and is still growing rapidly.  We’ve learned a lot about design and usability since we started this incredible journey, and we thought MindMeister’s 10-year anniversary  would be a good opportunity to share some of these lessons with you. 2006 2006 was the year we created MindMeister’s first prototypes, and as you can see, they were still rather simple: MindMeister prototype 1 At that time, Firefox was the best browser for web design, but the most common one by far was Internet Explorer, which was a real pain to work with. Seriously, everything below Internet Explorer 5 was just horrible. The existing browser technology wasn’t even ready for canvas drawing, which is why we had to draw the lines of our mind maps with 11 px DIVs. If you think that sounds like an incredible amount of work, that’s because it was. Lesson 1: The existing technology might not be ready for your idea. But don’t let that stop you. 2007 In February 2007, MindMeister was released as a private beta. Within two weeks, we had 1,000 users on the platform, and 10 times that many by May that year.   MindMeister homepage in closed beta stage This simple page was the very first impression our users got of MindMeister. Back then, gradients were all the rage â€" especially super glossy ones! â€" and for ‘best’ effect they were usually combined with dark UI elements. As we were in a closed beta stage and people could only access MindMeister through an invitation code, we didn’t even have a sign-up button. To show people exactly what MindMeister was, we embedded a live (!) version of a mind map into the homepage, which enabled visitors to interact with the map, zoom in, open and close branches, and more. For the official launch in May 2007, we had to adapt the homepage quite a bit: MindMeister homepage during the launch in May 2007 You’ll notice a few things here: The site was glossier than vloggers doing the 100 layers  of lip gloss challenge. We added a big H1 to help visitors understand at a glance what we were offering (and for SEO as well, of course). We included a big, round, glossy pink sign-in button. If this didn’t entice people to click, nothing would. Instead of a single sign-up button which would subsequently lead the visitor to the different subscription plans, the plans were all featured on the homepage itself. MindMeister’s map editor  in 2007 Our first proper map editor already had the three main UI elements that we still use today: a header, a footer and a sidebar on the right. Elements in the header were the ones that impacted the whole map, whereas everything in the sidebar affected only the currently selected topic. The footer included things like status notifications, sharing options and the like. Already, we had added so many features that the sidebar on the right was getting too cluttered. To combat this problem, we made the sections of the sidebar collapsible, similar to how Photoshop and other Adobe products still do it. To ensure new users wouldn’t be too overwhelmed, only the most important sections were expanded when the user first entered the map editor. Lesson 2: Don’t overwhelm new users with too many features. The Share Dialog Our number one USP has  always been  MindMeister’s collaboration engine, which allowed people to work together on a mind map in real-time. The map share dialog was thus one of the most important areas in the map editor, and we spent quite a lot of time trying to optimize it. Here’s an overview of the different versions we went through: Version 1: Even back then we already differentiated between collaborator access and read-only access, so the first version of the share dialog featured two fields that simply showed current collaborators and current viewers of the map, followed by an email invite button below. Version 2: In the second version, the standard Safari button we had previously used for the invite CTA was replaced with a shiny customized button. We also added an additional setting which gave the map creator more control over who got to add more collaborators to their map. Still, this dialog was extremely simple and straightforward. Version 3: After studying how we ourselves used MindMeister, we soon realized that a) most people would probably collaborate with the same set of people on an ongoing basis, and that b) having to type the same email addresses over and over would become tedious quickly. So for the third version of the dialog, we took a completely different approach. MindMeister automatically remembers email addresses the user has previously invited, so with the new UI the user could now quickly add viewers or collaborators to their maps via a simple drag and drop motion. This was the final version we ended up implementing in the live app. Lesson 3: Do everything you can to make sharing and inviting as easy as possible. 2009 MindMeister homepage from 2009: The height of the glossy era 2009 was the height of the glossy-gradient boom, and as you can see, we went all out by adding a bold white rim around our H1. This is also when we first introduced the bright rays to the background, which not only represented the branches of a mind map but also symbolized the light rays of a new idea being born. They would stick with us for a long time. If you look at websites from that era, you’ll also notice an increase in drop shadows everywhere. This is because browsers (all except Internet Explorer, as usual) were finally starting to offer good support for drop shadows, and designers jumped on them to improve the 3-dimensional effect of elements. Until then, shadows actually had to be added to the images manually, using Photoshop (we can see some of the younger designers among you laughing and shaking their heads at this). Lesson 4: Just because it’s technically possible, doesn’t mean you should do it EVERYWHERE. MindMeister homepage from 2009:  This time with Helvetica Before the year was over, we realized that Variable Bold, the font we were using for our logo as well as headlines, just wasn’t going to do. With its playfulness, it wasn’t the kind of font that would speak to business users, our main target audience. So with a heavy heart, we said goodbye to the soft round curves of good old Variable and switched to Helvetica, which was clean and thin and worked perfectly on most systems. Finally, we were able to use real text for the headlines instead of images, which was great news for our localization efforts, too. Lesson 5: Kill your darlings. 2012 MindMeisters map editor in 2012 In 2012 MindMeister came out of the dark ages when finally both the website and map editor got visibly lighter and friendlier. We replaced the intense pink we had been using as our highlight color with a lively blue, which also gave MindMeister a much more professional appearance. Inside the editor the sidebar color was changed to a light gray in addition to being simplified and downsized quite a bit. This is the first time we introduced tabs for advanced features in the sidebar. Lesson 6: Pink is friendly, but not very businesslike. 2014 MindMeisters map editor with a fresh flat UI In January 2014 we released MindMeister 9, which featured a completely revamped interface, using the flat design that had already transformed half the internet. Made popular by Apple’s iOS 7 with its lively colors, this mobile-inspired trend removed all shadows, gradients and depth from our website, bringing the focus onto the shapes of individual UI elements. Paired with a lot of white space, the new interface boosted a much cleaner, fresher, and most importantly simpler look that fit well with our overall focus on simplicity and usability. Lesson 7: Take inspiration from market leaders. A new CI for MindMeister With Retina displays becoming ever more common, thin icons also became popular as the high-resolution displays could finally do those thin, sharp lines justice. And so, for the first time since its launch 7 years earlier, MindMeister also got a new logo and icon that fit the rest of the flat makeover. 2016 MindMeisters map editor in 2016 In 2016 we released another subtle makeover for the map editor which was brought on by a number of usability tests and observations of how our users behaved in the editor. Various features were moved; map themes and alignments, for instance, were added to the info menu (i) in the top bar to simplify the footer. Another influence during this update  was MeisterTask, the task management tool we released in 2015. With a large number of shared users, creating a uniform experience on both tools became a priority. You’ll notice that the user avatar is now visible in the upper right corner of the editor, just like it is in MeisterTask, and that the online help button was removed from the bottom bar. The online help is now available through the account popover in both tools. Lesson 8: Consistency is key. The new quick share popover As teams rely ever more heavily on communication platforms such as Slack and HipChat, the importance of email invitation has reduced. To adapt to this change we introduced a quick share popover that put our link share option on the same level as the previously much more prominent invitation via email. You’ll also notice the addition of big social share buttons in the popover, which are enticing more users to publish and share their maps on Facebook, Twitter and other channels. Lesson 9: Link sharing supersedes email invitation. 2017 Decluttered design idea for MindMeister’s map editor Today, we’re again noticing that too many UI elements have accumulated in our map editor over the years. With a dedicated team adding and improving features constantly, that’s no surprise. But now it’s time we bring the focus back onto the mind map and its content, and we’ll do that by taking a good long look at all the clutter and cold-heartedly removing everything that isn’t essential. Minimalistic design idea for MindMeister’s map editor Another big focus of 2017 will be the consistency between the web version and MindMeister’s mobile apps, which haven’t gotten quite as much love over the past few years as they deserve. However, we won’t stop there. As we’re adopting a real mobile-first approach for the first time ever, we’re being forced to work with an incredibly small UI real estate and thus have to focus on what’s absolutely essential. And this, without a doubt, will have a positive impact on MindMeister’s web version, too. Lesson 10: Design for mobile and transfer what you learn onto the web. Web design has come a long way over the past decade, and so has MindMeister. Were excited to see the new trends the next 10  years will bring, and how they will affect the way we interact with web applications and websites in general. What do you think the major web design trends of the next decade will be? Let us know in the comments below! Simple and Intuitive Mind Mapping Now Now

Mesopotamia and Egypt Essay - 1125 Words

1) I have chosen to discuss the civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt. Both have many significant similarities and differences. I would like to compare some important points in four common categories. I will compare and contrast the geography and its impact, the political structure of each society, the importance of their existing class structures and finally the role of women in these dynamic civilizations. Mesopotamia and Egypt were both in flood basins of major rivers. Mesopotamia was characterized by turmoil and tension and in contrast Egypt was characterized by stability and serenity. The Mesopotamian climate was harsh and since the Tigris and the Euphrates flooded irregularly,†¦show more content†¦In the beginning Egypt was divided into two parts governed by different rulers. The Unification of the lower and upper kingdoms of Egypt marked the beginning of the Archaic period. The unification of Egypt was significant in the longevity of this civilization to ensure the free flow of traffic on the Nile. The Kingdom of Egypt was ruled by one ruler called the Pharaoh that ruled the land as the chief priest. In this civilization there was no separation of religion and politics in their lives. Both Mesopotamia and Egypt were at one time ruled by kings that derived their power from the gods and were viewed as divine. The Class structure in Mesopotamia had three major social groups. They were known as the nobles, commoners, and slaves. Commoners that included farmers, merchants, fishermen, scribes, and craftspeople made up ninety percent of the Sumerian population. In Egypt the class structure was similar in that there were three major class groups called nobles or upper class, middle class, and lower class. The enormous difference between the classes is best shown in the lower classes. The Mesopotamian lower c lasses were slaves commanded by their owners. In Egypt the lower class citizens lived freely but with certain requirements to their country. They were to pay taxes on their crops and dedicated much time towards the countries building projects. They alsoShow MoreRelatedEgypt And Mesopotamia917 Words   |  4 PagesArchitecture in Egypt and Mesopotamia When you think about ancient architecture, what questions arise? Do you ask yourself about its history, durability, and structure? For example, Egypt is known for its pyramids, while Mesopotamia is known for its temple. Both are influential and recognizable after so many years and will continue to be for years to come, those questions come without a doubt to mind. In the following paragraphs, these questions will be answered and explainedRead MoreMesopotamia Vs. Egypt Mesopotamia1020 Words   |  5 PagesBuckley C Block History Mr. Kelly 10/2/15 Mesopotamia vs. Egypt Mesopotamia and Egypt were very different because of their geography and world view. 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Through comparing similarities and differences it is easier to analyze why things developed and occurred the way they did. For example, in comparing Egypt and Mesopotamia it will be easier to achieve understanding of major aspects of their culture, the way other cultures impacted them, and their influence on the future. InRead MoreEgypt, Mesopotamia, And Israel1418 Words   |  6 Pagesprey. This began civilizations that were controlled by leadership, organization, innovative technology and mainly by geography. An example of these civilizations are Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Israel. Each of these civilizations had their own advantages, Egypt was brought fertile land from the regular floodings by the Nile River, Mesopotamia was located in the fertile crescent and Israel was in between both of these advanced civilizations, this brought them many new ideas that they would integr ate intoRead MoreEgypt and Mesopotamia Essay1038 Words   |  5 Pagestime. Two of the most advanced were Egypt and Mesopotamia. Although both had a male dominant government that was supported by a patriarchal king or leader, Egypt had a strong, centralized government whereas Mesopotamia was decentralized and was based upon small city-states operating independently. To add, Egypt was also classified as self sufficient rather than Mesopotamia who relied on trade because of unstable agriculture. Due to Egypt surpassing Mesopotamia in areas such as governmental structureRead MoreEgypt And Mesopotamia Similarities984 Words   |  4 PagesPaper 1 In what ways were the civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt alike? In what ways were they different? What accounts for these similarities and differences? Mesopotamia and Egypt were the first known civilizations in history. While maintaining separate identities, they still managed to have a vast number of similarities. Differences that go beyond general location were also very prevalent between the two civilizations. One of the biggest similarities between the two civilizations isRead MoreEgypt And Mesopotamia Similarities1368 Words   |  6 PagesBoth Egyptian and Mesopotamian Views of Living Egypt is a country found on the northeast corner of Africa. While Mesopotamia is found between the two rivers Tigris and Euphrates in the western part of the Middle East. Both of these countries share the Mediterranean Sea. Even though in distance they did not seem far apart they had similarities, and differences in their two cultures. Both Egypt and Mesopotamia had unique religions, writing systems, literature, scientific achievements, art, and intricateRead MoreMesopotamia, Egypt and the Hebrews1953 Words   |  8 PagesOctober 10th, 1994 Mesopotamia, Egypt and the Hebrews Their development from the 3rd millennium to 2nd C.E. When the canonization of the Hebrew Holy (TaNaKh) took place. Frank Mancini irg@ix.netcom.com MESOPOTAMIA Mesopotamia was the land of four primary civilizations: the Sumerian, the Akkadians, the Babylonian and the Assyrians. The Hebrews, like the Akkadians, belong to a group of people known as Semites and from there we can see the influence of Mesopotamian

Cell Phones Can Help Keep A Parents Child Safe - 883 Words

Almost every child has asked his or her parents for a cell phone. While there may be plenty of adequate reasons for parents to say no, there are also some reasons for parents to say yes. That child may want a cell phone so that he or she can talk to his or her friends, to get apps, or to be able to say that he or she has one, but parents can benefit from their child have a cell phone too. Parents should say yes to their child having a cell phone because it can help keep their child safe, keeps them in touch and up to date, can be the source of discipline or punishment, and they are affordable. Cell phones can help keep a parents child safe. If there was ever a situation where a parent had to talk to his or her child, or vice versa, all that parent would have to do is call. Also, with the GPS, parents can locate their child as long as that child has his or her phone on. If a parent’s child ever runs away or goes missing, the police can track him or her down. Even with the phone off the police can track old signals that can help them track a parents’ child. Now phone companies are making apps to help with safety. For example, Motorola has made Motorola Alert. Motorola Alert can send text messages out for when a child or parents would like to let each other know where using meet me, parents can get their child’s location sent to them every five to thirty minutes using follow me, and if there was ever an emergency their child could use the emergency button that would send anShow MoreRelatedShould cellphones be allowed to children of ages 6 to 12?1562 Words   |  7 Pageschildren who own a phone. Now, with the latest advanced technology we cannot do much to prevent minors from gaining access to this type of devices. However, what we need to concern about is the damage that phones can cause to children. Lately, there have been many cases of abduction of children by social networks, and also cases of theft of cell phones. Therefore, the debate regarding children using cellphones whether or not has created different types of concerns along parents and specialist. InRead MoreCell Phones Should Not Be Banned from School Property693 Words   |  3 Pagesstudents with their cellular telephones in hand. One may say the use of cell phones should be banned on school property, however there are many instances in which that may not be the best idea. Parents need to know that their children are safe and those children need a way in which to contact their parents if an emergency arises. If their child is not permitted to have their cellular tele phone with them at school, the parent loses that sense of security. Cellular telephones should not be banned forRead MoreBenefits Of Cell Phones For Young Children882 Words   |  4 PagesAs today’s world has evolved with over 6 billion people having mobile phones; communication has become further of a necessity for older human beings. 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Keep in mind, it’s the 2016-more advancedRead MoreNegative Effects On Cellphones : A Good Tool For Learning Social Skills1443 Words   |  6 Pagesalways have your cell phone with you. Is this a good thing or a bad thing? Parents struggle everyday just to seek some attention from their kids, they also worry if their kids are making smart choices on their phones. Cell phones have become very beneficial in today’s life. However, it also causes a lack of social skills, inappropriate activity, and dangerous distractions. Primarily, some people would say that cell phones are a good tool for learning social skills, and that you can learn a lot fromRead MoreCell Phones : Pro Vs. Con1025 Words   |  5 PagesCell Phones: Pro vs. Con Cell phones have come a long way since April 3, 1973 when the first phone was invented. The first call in history was made that day by Motorola employee Martin Cooper, as he stood next to a 900 MHz base station in New York City and phoned to the headquarters of Bell Labs in New Jersey (The Cellphone Turns 40: Remembering Martin Cooper’s Historic Call). Since that day, cell phones have evolved to become what is now a all-in-one master piece. A current cell phone removes theRead MoreShould Cell Phones Be Used As An Educational Tool?1032 Words   |  5 PagesIt was her cell phone. Her cell phone was always a useful tool to her. She used it for calling, studying, and even entertainment, but she realized that it can be used as a learning resource in every classroom. Her school has a no cell phone policy, but if she were to persuade her school, she can get an exception to almost any rule. All she needs to do in order to make this idea a reality is share this with her school. 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Power and Dominace Free Essays

This essay will talk on the definition of privilege and dominance, the application and importance of anti-oppressive practice and the theoretical frame work of Thompson’s Personal, Cultural and Structural (PCS) models of oppression, Burnham’s social ‘GRRAACCEESS’ and Fook’s Micro and Macro approaches. It will also cover my reflection on the article ‘To Address Privilege and Dominance’ and how it influences my social work practice and a reflection on challenges that might arise in my practice. Bailey (1998:109) defines privilege as ‘systematically conferred advantages individuals enjoys by virtue of their membership in dominant groups with access to resources and institutional power that are beyond the common advantages of marginalised citizens’. We will write a custom essay sample on Power and Dominace or any similar topic only for you Order Now Tillner (1997:2) defines dominance as ‘a form of identity practice that constructs a difference which legitimises dominance and grants the agent of dominance the illusion of a superior identity’. Anti-oppressive practice is the cornerstone of ethical social work practice. It is very important and central to learning in social work practice how to challenge the focused abuse of power and mistreatment of others using specific legislation where applicable and to consider the particular disadvantages resulting from a precise social difference. Dominelli (2002:36) denotes that ‘anti-oppressive practice addresses the whole person and enables the practitioner to relate to his or her client’s social context in a way that takes account of the ‘allocative and authoritative’ that both the practitioner and the client bring to the relationship. Thus, anti oppressive practice takes on board personal, institutional, cultural and economic issues and examines how this impinges on individuals’ behaviour and opportunities to develop their full potentials as persons living within collective entities’. Parker (2007) states that anti-discriminatory approaches highlight disadvantage by association experienced by people with whom social workers practise as the discrimination is directly related to the particular characteristics identified within the legislation. Parker (2007) further explains that anti-oppressive pursue to change systems that upholds the status quo at the expense of carers, service users disadvantaged or marginalised people due to their social division and statuses. Thompson (2006) identifies three levels that can make us better understand the ways oppression or discrimination works in society. These are Personal, Cultural and Structural (PCS) models of oppression. The personal or psychological level is concerned with an individual’s thoughts, feelings, views, attitudes and actions towards a particular group, person, race, gender, sexuality, religion or community. The cultural level centres on ‘shared ways of seeing, thinking and doing’ (Thompson, 2009). That is: cultural levels of interaction within society and shared ways of seeing, thinking and doing, the same values and patterns of thought and behaviour, conformity to social norms and humour as a vehicle for transmitting and reinforcing culture. Culture is also very influential in determining what is regarded as ‘normal’ in any given circumstance. The structural level refers to the network of social divisions and power relations that are so closely associated with them. It also relates to the way in which oppression and discrimination are ‘sewn in’ to the fabric of society or institutionalise. It also relates to the level of social forces; ‘interlocking patterns of power and influence’. Hugman (2009:1142) notes that ‘Fooks approach shows how working at the micro level can be informed by structural understandings of the causes of social needs’. Micro pertains to individual, domestic unit and small groups whilst macro relates to community, organisation and policies. It is important to work with macro minded in micro practice as most difficulties faced by service users can easily be identified at that level. Burnham (2005) claims that power and privilege relates to an individual’s gender, race, religion, age, ability, class, culture, creed, ethnicity, education sexuality and sexual orientation. Hence, social workers need to understand their own identities in order to understand the identity of service users. This will facilitate better interaction and good engagement. The aspect of the article that stood out for me is the privileges or advantages enjoyed by males. If we look back in history of time we will see that woman have come a very long way fighting for equality. It is obvious that men enjoy certain privileges based on the fact that they are males as compared to their female counterparts. There are other informed observations that propose that the male dominance in present day society is a function of culturally-installed patriarchy that not only favours men but also oppresses women in society. Robinson (2003) claims that patriarchy enthusiasts would argue that society enjoys most benefit because of male dominance and our respective gender roles. Feminist philosophers and activist are quick to point out the great suffering women have experienced over the years and the discrimination they faced every day in present day society. It is a truism that woman have suffered over the years and are still suffering today due to some aspects of male privilege and dominance in society. It will be of great help to the society if social workers focus on the visible and invisible mechanisms of power, privilege, and influence that males have over females. This will be of great help to fight against inequality and other social ills. There are privileges that that come to some people simply because of the fact that they are males. For example, it will be very difficult for a man be discriminated at his place of work on the ground of his sex. Most females are and have been discriminated against on the ground of their sex. To add to the above, men are paid higher than women doing the same job especially if the employer knows that the man has a family. During recruitment, some employers are very reluctant to recruit female workers as they are concerned that she will need time off for maternity, time to take her child to the hospital and other family commitment. Most service users will do what they are asked to do by a male social worker as compared to a female social worker due to the fact that they are male. Most service users especially when it comes to child protection will be more confrontational and verbal with females as compared to males. I have worked with cases that when it came to difficult and confrontational service users, the cases where transferred to male social workers. As soon as the cases were transferred to a male social worker the service user’s attitude towards the male social worker changed. Another aspect in the article that stood out for me is the privileges enjoyed by heterosexual couples over same sex or gay couple. I have a friends and colleagues who are lesbians and they will remind from time to time that I should understand they are lesbians and it is extremely difficult for them to kiss or hold hands in public like heterosexual couples. I have also worked with service users that are gays and lesbians and I have to always remember to use the term partner when I am referring to their boyfriend or girlfriend. They have also explained to me that they do not feel free to communicate with colleagues or people because they feel that they will not be taken serious or they will be perceived as social misfits. The above mentioned facts about privilege and dominance will certainly influence my social work practice in a positive way. Social work is a profession that provide help and valuable support to people who are facing some forms of oppression and social exclusion and other social ills. It is very essential that social workers empathise with service users as they are in the position of power whilst the service users may sometime feel powerless. It should be recommended that much work be done in order to bridge the gap between male and female. The work should be centred towards extending privilege, power, dominance and influence to women. Men also need to assess themselves in order to address the concerns of open oppression of women. This could also include talks and seminars on issues like domestic violence, workplace disparity and other issues related to gender equality. It will ease communication and understanding when a social worker explains to service users their concerns and what they will do in order to address the concern. Some service users believe that social workers are baby snatchers, community police, a tool for the upper class, a control mechanism and in such situations service users can become abusive and confrontational. Social workers need to explain the reasons for their visit and what they will do and what they will not do. This will enable service users and other family members to engage with social workers. Worthy of mention is the fact that social workers should be aware of the area of privilege and dominance and as they can discuss this with people who enjoy certain privileges as a way forward. For example, always hold conversation with men about the privileges enjoyed by them. As a social worker you have to be aware of the challenges that you might face whilst trying to address the issue of privilege and dominance. Advocacy is a means of emancipation and it is often not easy to advocate for certain group of people. It might be very difficult for information to penetrate some communities. Again, some people use religion as a defence for not accepting other people’s values, sexuality and religious in society. The fact that social workers need to be polite, speak cautiously and professionally at all times might lead to some service users taking them for granted. It is of immense importance for social workers to reflect on the issue of privilege and dominance as they work with service users who have been marginalised or oppressed. This will serve as emancipatory given the fact that the lack of critical reflection on the privileged flank of social division permits members of dominant group to strengthen their dominance. This will enable social workers to best understand issues revolving around privilege, dominance, power and influence. A good understanding of these issues will pave a good way for social workers to work better with service users and also instigate change when and where it is needed. Reference Bailey, A. (1998) ‘Privilege: Expanding on Marilyn Fry’s oppression’, Journal of Social Philosophy. 29, 3: 104-119. Dominelli. L. (2002) Anti-Oppressive Social Work Theory and Practice. London: Palgrave Macmillan Hugman, R. (2009) But is it Social Work? Some Reflection of Mistaken Identities. British Journal of Social Work, 39, 1139-1153. Parker, J. (2007) Social Work, Disadvantage by Association and Anti-Oppressive Practice. In P. Burke and J. Parker. (eds. ) Social Work and Disadvantage: Addressing the Roots of Stigma Through Association, London: Jessica Kingsley. Robinson, M (2003) Gender, Power and Privilege. Charles Pfeffer: WetWare, Inc. Rochester, NY. Tillner, G. (1997) ‘Masculinity and Xenophobia: The identity of dominance’. Paper presented to the UNESCO conference, Masculinity and Male Roles in the Perspective of a Culture of Peace, Oslo, Norway. Thompson, N. (2006) Anti-Discriminatory Practice (2006) 4th ed, Palgrave, Macmillian. Thompson, N. (2009) Promoting equality, valuing diversity. Lyme Regis: Russell House Publishing. How to cite Power and Dominace, Papers

The History Of The Internet Essays - Network Architecture

The History of the Internet The History of the Internet The Internet has update the computer and communications world like nothing before. The invention of the telegraph, telephone, radio, and computer set the stage for this unprecedented integration of capabilities. The Internet is at once a world-wide broadcasting capability, a mechanism for information distribution, and a medium for collaboration and interaction between individuals and their computers without regard for geographic location. The Internet represents one of the most successful examples of the benefits of sustained investment and commitment to research and development of information infrastructure. Beginning with the early research in packet switching, the government, industry and academia have been partners in evolving and deploying this exciting new technology. Over its fifteen year history, the Internet has functioned as a collaboration among cooperating parties. Certain key functions have been critical for its operation, not the least of which is the specification of the protocols by which the components of the system operate. To get to the origins of the Internet, we have to go back in time to 1957. You probably have no cause to remember, but it was International Geophysical Year, a year dedicated to gathering information about the upper atmosphere during a period of intense solar activity. Eisenhower announced in 1955 that, as part of the activities, the USA hoped to launch a small Earth orbiting satellite. Then Kremlin announced that it hoped to do likewise. Planning in America was focussed on a sophisticated three stage rocket, but in Russia they took a more direct approach, on 4 October 1957 the USSR launched (a 70 kgs bleeping sphere the size of a medicine ball) into Earth orbit. The effect in the United States was electrifying, since it seemed overnight to wipe out the feeling on invulnerability the country had enjoyed since the explosion of the first nuclear bomb thirteen years before. One of the immediate reactions was the creation of the Advanced Research Projects Agency within the Ministry of Defense. Its mission was to apply state-of-the-art technology to US defense and to avoid being surprised (again!) by technological advances of the enemy. It was also given interim control of the US satellite program until the creation of NASA in October 1958. ARPA became the technological think-tank of the American defense effort, employing directly a couple of hundred top scientists and with a budget sufficient for sub-contracting research to other top American institutions. Although the advanced computing would come to dominate its work, the initial focus of ARPA's activities were on space, ballistic missiles and nuclear test monitoring. Even so, from the start ARPA was interested in communicating between its operational base and its sub-contractors, preferably through direct links between its various computers. In October 1972 ARPANET went 'public'. At the First International Conference on Computers and Communication, held in Washington DC, ARPA scientists demonstrated the system in operation, linking computers together from 40 different locations. This stimulated further research in scientific community throughout the Western World. Soon other networks would appear. Here we have the first true computer network. Since it is all still fairly basic, it is worth considering the underlying principles have basically remained the same (even if they, mercifully, operate far faster and look much prettier). We start off with a passive terminal and an active host, a keyboard and a computer. They are linked together by a cable. By typing in commands recognized by a computer, you can use the programs stored in its computer, access its files (and modify them and print them out as desired). Most people can envisage this arrangement within a single building, or complex of buildings. The original ARPANET grew into the Internet. The Internet was based on the idea that there would be multiple independent networks of rather arbitrary design, beginning with the ARPANET as the pioneering packet switching network, but soon to include packet satellite networks, ground-based packet radio networks and other networks. The Internet as we now know it embodies a key underlying technical idea, namely that of open architecture networking. In this approach, the choice of any individual network technology was not dictated by a particular network architecture but rather could be selected freely by a provider and made to interwork with the other networks through a meta-level "Internetworking Architecture". Up until that time there was only one general method for federating networks. This was the traditional circuit switching method where networks would interconnect at the circuit level, passing individual bits on a synchronous basis along a portion of an end-to-end circuit between a pair of end locations. Recall that Kleinrock had shown in 1961 that packet switching was a more

Juan Corona, the Machete Murderer

Juan Corona, the Machete Murderer Juan Corona was a labor contractor who hired migrant workers to produce fields in California. In a murder spree lasting six weeks, he raped and murdered 25 men and buried their machete-hacked bodies in the orchards owned by local farmers. Diagnosed With Schizophrenia Juan Corona (born 1934) moved from Mexico to Yuba City, California in the 1950s to work as a produce field-worker. Corona, diagnosed with schizophrenia, managed to work up through the ranks despite his illness. In the early 1970s, he moved from the field into a contractor’s job and hired workers for the local Yuba City Growers. The Hired Help Married with four children, Corona succeeded in providing a comfortable life for his family. He had the reputation of being a tough person in his interactions with the workers he hired. Many of the workers were down-and-out men, homeless alcoholics, old and unemployable. Few had family ties and most lived nomadic lives. Corona in Full Control Corona offered the workers housing on Sullivan Ranch. Here the migrant workers and itinerants worked daily for little pay and lived in a dismal prison-like environment. Corona had control over their basic needs of food and shelter and in 1971, he began to use that power to satisfy his sexually sadistic impulses. Easy Victims For men to vanish without anyone taking notice was common on the Sullivan Ranch. Corona took advantage of this and began to select men to rape and murder. Their sudden absence did not cause concern and went unreported. Knowing this- Corona made little effort to destroy evidence linking him to the murdered men. A Pattern of Murder His pattern was the same. He dug holes- sometimes a few days in advance, picked his victim, sexually assaulted and stabbed them to death. He then hacked at their heads with a machete and buried them. Discovery of a Grave Corona’s carelessness eventually caught up with him. In early May 1971, a ranch owner discovered a seven-foot freshly dug hole on his property. When he returned the following day he found the hole filled. He became suspicious and called authorities. When the hole was uncovered, the mutilated corpse of Kenneth Whitacre was found three feet in the ground. Whitacre had been sexually assaulted, stabbed and his head split opened with a machete. More Graves Uncovered Another farmer reported that he also had a freshly covered hole on his property. The hole contained the body of an elderly drifter, Charles Fleming. He had been sodomized, stabbed and his head was mutilated with a machete. The Machete Murderer The investigation turned up more graves. By June 4, 1971, authorities uncovered 25 graves. All the victims were men found laying on their backs, arms above their heads and shirts pulled over their faces. Each man had been sodomized and murdered in a similar fashion- stabbed and two slashes in the shape of a cross on the back of their heads. A Trail Leads to Corona Receipts with Juan Coronas name on them were found in the victims pockets. The police determined that many of the men had last been seen alive with Corona. A search of his home turned up two bloodstained knives, a ledger with seven of the victim’s names and the date of their murders logged, a machete, pistol, and bloodstained clothing. The Trial Corona was arrested and tried for the 25 murders. He was found guilty and sentenced to 25 consecutive life sentences, leaving him no hope of parole. He immediately appealed the verdict. Many believed an accomplice had been involved in the crimes but no evidence supporting the theory was ever found. In 1978, Coronas appeal was upheld and he set out to try to prove the lawyers during his first trial were inept because they never used his schizophrenia to plead insanity. He also pointed the finger to his brother as being the real killer. Coronas half brother, Natividad, was a cafe owner who lived in a nearby town in 1970. Natividad sexually attacked a patron and left his beaten body in the bathroom of the cafe. He took off to Mexico when he found out the victim was going to sue him. There was no evidence found linking Coronas brother to the crimes. In 1982, the court upheld the original guilty verdicts. Meanwhile, Corona was involved in a prison fight and received 32 razor cuts and lost an eye. Six Weeks of Murder Coronas killing spree lasted six weeks. Why he decided to begin killing is a mystery and one that many psychologists pondered. Most believe he probably had a past of sexual assault and victimizing the helpless individuals who he hired. Some attribute Coronas violence to his need for supreme control of his victims.

3 Parenthetical Punctuation Puzzles

3 Parenthetical Punctuation Puzzles 3 Parenthetical Punctuation Puzzles 3 Parenthetical Punctuation Puzzles By Mark Nichol 1. â€Å"Thanks to technology, we can have independence, relative independence, from the harsh qualities of the real world on a day-to-day basis.† This sentence’s punctuation a series of three commas implies a flat progression of ideas without modulation. But the writer, after the fact, modifies the absolute word independence with the qualifying term relative, and should signal this slight case of backpedaling by marking the phrase â€Å"relative independence† as an interjection: â€Å"Thanks to technology, we can have independence relative independence from the harsh qualities of the real world on a day-to-day basis.† 2. â€Å"You, yes you, can say you were there for the advent of the Apple iPod.† The writer almost immediately interrupts the sentence to emphasize the importance of the reader’s qualification to make the claim. The interruption, however, is weak because it is accomplished with a pair of quotidian commas rather than two dashing dashes. Also, note that if the writer had correctly punctuated the parenthetical phrase (â€Å"yes, you†), the result would be a confusing sequence of three commas (â€Å"You, yes, you, can say . . .†), which would further diminish the impact of the interruption. The correct treatment is â€Å"You yes, you can say you were there for the advent of the Apple iPod.† (The third parenthetical option, to place â€Å"yes, you† in parentheses, is the equivalent of whispering the phrase, which is not the connotation the writer intends.) 3. â€Å"The potato, and for that matter ginger root, are not true roots, but underground stems.† This sentence is a more complicated variation of the one in the previous example complicated, because the interjection (â€Å"and for that matter ginger root†) itself includes a parenthetical phrase that the author has erred in not setting off with punctuation: â€Å"For that matter† is an interjection within the phrase â€Å"and ginger root.† The larger interjection should be set off by em dashes, though parentheses are also correct; commas will suffice for the one within: â€Å"The potato and, for that matter, ginger root is not a true root, but an underground stem.† (Note, too, that I altered the sentence’s plural construction to a singular one: Factually, ginger root is also an underground stem rather than a true root, but in the sentence as it is structured, because ginger root is within a parenthetical phrase, is and the nouns root and stem refer only to potato.) Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Punctuation category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:50 Idioms About Legs, Feet, and ToesWhen to Form a Plural with an ApostrophePeople vs. Persons