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 etc. It makes sense since everyone has a browsers, they all work relatively the same and its cross platform, plus its available anywhere there is an 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 in case I think of anything else to add to it. Its just harder to do that with an 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.