Figuring It All Out

As this is the first time I have attempted running a cloud studio using old hardware, I have decided to document processes, successes and failures. To start I have begun developing some diagrams outlining the general idea in order to help me formulate the initial setup. What I want to do is have an old computer capable of basic graphics etc, using Ubuntu and associated software for graphic and illustration purposes. This box will be where I do the artwork. possibly scanning stuff in and cleaning it up. I will then use the cloud to store the clients work, saving an occasional hard copy on DVD as required. I then hope to contact the clients, convince them to use accounts I set up for them and get them to brief me via chat software available on the cloud or email. While I work they can update me on their feelings about the works progress. When its all finished I will upload the finished piece to the cloud invoicing and directing them to a pay-pal account for payment. It all sounds good and looks ok on paper but....I am running into some glitches early on. My first problem is getting Ubuntu to run on such a small hard drive. I have only got a couple of Gigs at the moment. I will be trying to source a cheap or free larger drive in order to get Ubuntu and company to run.



In an attempt to get a smaller OS but still maintain a Ubuntu distribution I have searched the Net hi and low. I have found a couple of options but none more exciting that Ubuntulite 0.8. It is a cut down version of Ubuntu with the capability of being expanded. I am hoping I can get the usual graphics software to run on it so I can go forth and illustrate. I found the iso at ( http://u-lite.org/content/get-u-lite) for those who are'nt technical enough to get it running. I will look around for others. But for the time being Ulite will suit my purposes.

The Ubuntu Experiment

I have just aquired an old Compaq Deskpro, circa 1998 It cost me a dollar and some leg work. It still works ok but it has minimal power. In an attempt to prove a concept I am going to set this box up with Ubuntu and attempt to finish a client job using only the free software I like to use. I will also investigate some new possibilities being developed in cloud computing. The plan is to use this to store or cache the work for delivery to my client. I will be posting about the process regularly.

Strutting Your Stuff

I like a simple web site. By that I mean easy to navigate and straight to the point. I always told my students at Uni that good online and interactive design follows very simple principles and they can be summed up in two statements. " Don't make me work!" and "don't make me think!" As soon as you complicated the use of any aspect of a website by trying to be too smart and gimmicky. You loose the initial purpose of the site and for the most part you frustrate your audience. Demographic and style considerations take a back seat until the simplicity of use and navigation is formalized.

You can find loads of free web hosting services on the web and loads of free templates and apps to help get you started. This site - http://www.free-webhosts.com/no-forced-ads.php has a list and you can browse the different sites at your leisure. Pick what you feel comfortable with and sign up. Be careful to read all licensing agreements.

I am currently setting up a demonstration site and I will report on how its going. I will update you on the free processes that I think are suitable. You should eventually be able to set up a free website the has all the bells and whistles while still being usable and entertaining.

Xara Xtreme Free on Linux

Possibly one of the best free vector software out there and a great companion to Inkscape, is Xara Xtreme. I have only just recently started to play with this software and I am learning really quickly that it is a versatile and flexable addition to my design tools. I really love the mosaic tool, for years I have wanted just such a tool to work on a new look in my illustration portfolio. Xara is available at a very cheap price to every other OS but Linux ( Ubuntu users ) score it free. Do check this out and add it to your arsenal.