Webfonts:
I have been playing with webfonts for a while and want to make some web templates that I can sell in my new store. I am keen on having great-looking typography in my designs, but the problem is that it is hard to find webfonts that can be re-distributed legally as part of a template.
Google webfonts look like the best option so far for my current needs, as they have an SIL Open Font License 1.1 which allows re-distribution and re-use of the font.
The only problem is that Google webfonts seem a little limited in their selection, and if you’re after something specialised, you might like to try one of the other services listed below. Google Webfonts has what I want for my next project however, so I am going to try the service out.
Before you start embedding fonts or using webfonts in your commercial projects, it is a good idead to always remember to check the EULA (End User License Agreement). You may need to contact the original author of the font in order to get special permission to use the font, or to get an extended license. This means you will be able to not just use the font in your commercial project, but also be able to re-distribute or re-sell the font as part of your web template design.
Other sources to try:
Fontsquirrel (also for commercial use) – http://www.fontsquirrel.com/
Typekit – http://typekit.com/
webfontspreview.com – ‘Try web fonts on live sites’ a useful tool to see what different fonts would look like on your website http://www.webfontspreview.com/
Discovered this Week:
JEdit – A text editor that also has plugins which you can install to increase functionality. For instance, I will be using the CSS and HTML plugins.
Useful Online Planning App:
Action Method – actionmethod.com
A free online project planning application. You can sign up for free, but the free version does not have as many options as the Premium plan. On the other hand, the free plan looks like it would be good for freelancers or a very small studio. I have tried other apps such as Teuxdeux and Remember the Milk, but have ultimately gone back to pen and paper to plan out my day. I am going to give actionmethod.com a try because the application offers more than just lists and automated reminders.
When you log in you are prompted to start adding ‘Action Steps’: ‘Click ‘+ Add New’ to create an Action Step (any task you need to complete).’ This looks like it could fit in well with the way in which I already plan out my day.
‘ACTION STEPS are tasks that need to be completed. Each Action Step should start with a verb: “Call Y,” “Follow up with X,” “Buy a gift for Z.”‘
You can manage, delegate and discuss your action steps with other members of your team. You can also put an idea in the ‘Backburner’ section if you are unable to work on it right away and don’t want to forget about it.
Could The Action Method Online this ever replace my trusty pen and paper that I have come back to time and time again? I’ll let you know in a month or two.
Useful Link:
Youthedesigner – 20 color scheme generators. Because options are good!
Iteresting Article from UX Magazine:
The author of this article discusses the accepted idea that what users want is a general overview of an item that they may be interested in purchasing before the specific detailed information such as materials and dimensions. Could it be that in fact the opposite is true?
What are your thoughts on the matter? Do you like to read the general information at the top of a product-listing? Or do you just need the details?