Push for web apps
Currently there is a real push for everything to work in a browser, thin clients. For example; Email, Word processors (like Google docs), calendars, contact lists, router administration ect. It makes sense since everyone has a browsers, they all work relatively the same and its cross platform, plus its available anywhere there is a internet connection. With Google Gears (and Yahoo whatever?) these browser apps can work offline as well as online.
Not for every situation
As much as I like thin web apps, I still want a desktop client. My Blog is a perfect example, I won’t write new posts unless I have a desktop client. The tiniest little bit of extra effort I have to put in to login to the online services usually deters me from making updates. I also never write a post in one sitting, usually I will have 5-10 drafts that I add to over the day. When ever I finish a post a schedule it for the next day incase I think of anything else to add to it. Its just harder to do that with a online app.
Enter Windows Live Writer
Today a friend suggested I try “Windows Live Writer” a desktop blog client that works with WordPress. I have tried many different desktop clients before and have always left wanting. But so far it seems pretty decent.
Why I Like it
- It works with wordpress – not only does it work with wordpress but it works well, it downloads all the categories/tags so i don’t have to enter them manually.
- You can also add new categories from the client.
- Set the publish date
- and other wordpress features.
- Live preview – You can preview a post with your current theme before you post it, from with in the client.
- You can edit the source – I’m shocked on how many desktop clients don’t have this simple option.
- Simple interface – So simple my parents could use it
Conclusion
I’m going to try it out for a few weeks and see how it goes, So far I’m pretty impressed.
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