iPhone has arrived

Friday, June 29. The iPhone arrived. Sales begin at 6:00 pm local time.

California MLS

The California Association of Realtors (CAR) is considering plans for the future of multiple listing services and their content.

The group has approved an engineering project that will map out data fields from MLSs throughout the state -- a project that could serve as the backbone for a statewide MLS database or a consolidated statewide MLS.

There are currently about 70 MLSs in operation in the state, and some agents and brokers join multiple MLSs -- which means paying multiple fees and complying with multiple sets of rules. Brokers who work in multiple markets don't like this.

The state Realtor group plans to study regional MLS data-sharing and consolidation efforts that are already in progress in the state. Meanwhile, the National Association of Realtors is studying the creation of national data repository that could form the basis for a nationwide MLS.

More about YouTube

We posted an entry back in April about the use of videos and YouTube. Today there is an article by RISMedia also discussing this topic.

Read about this at http://www.rismedia.com/wp/2007-06-19/youtube-a-modern-take-on-real-estate-technology/

Do something about it now.

Surface computing

What is surface computing? Here's how Microsoft describes it.

Surface computing breaks down traditional barriers between people and technology, changing the way people interact with all kinds of everyday content, from photos to maps to menus. The intuitive user interface works without a traditional mouse or keyboard, allowing people to interact with content and information by using their hands and natural movements. Users are able to access information either on their own or collaboratively with their friends and families, unlike any experience available today.

There are four primary attributes to surface computing.

• Direct interaction. Users can actually “grab” digital information with their hands and interact with content through touch and gesture, without the use of a mouse or keyboard.
• Multi-touch contact. Surface computing recognizes many points of contact simultaneously, not just from one finger as with a typical touch screen, but up to dozens and dozens of items at once.
• Multi-user experience. The horizontal form factor makes it easy for several people to gather around surface computers together, providing a collaborative, face-to-face computing experience.
• Object recognition. Users can place physical objects on the surface to trigger different types of digital responses, including the transfer of digital content.

Safari stampede

Reports are being published that reveal significant interest in the recent release of the Safari Internet browser for Windows. Apple announced that in the first 48 hours of its release, Safari had been downloaded over one million times.

More significantly, Apple announced at its recent developer conference that it would open up its iPhone to outside software. The way to to make those software widgets for the iPhone? Create an add-on for the regular Safari browser.

The reason for the Safari Internet browser for Windows is to create a platform for the development of iPhone third party applications.

Windows Safari

Apple announced the availability of the Safari 3 Public Beta for Windows. The Apple Internet browser is advertised to be up to 2 times faster than Internet Explorer.

You can learn more about Apple's browser at http://www.apple.com/safari/

Here's a commentary on this unexpected development at http://www.wired.com/gadgets/mac/commentary/cultofmac/2007/06/cultofmac_0612

What is a custom website?

A custom website is the cherished possession of a successful REALTOR. The reason is that these are generally expensive and one of a kind. But what is truly a custom website?

Let's examine some development approaches and see how "custom" they are.

Develop a website using a website design tool (like FrontPage). The design layout is developed using functions within the tool. The designer using the tool may use design elements found on other websites.

Considered CUSTOM. However if it's a substantial imitation of another site, it truly isn't "custom".

Starting with the code for an existing website, modify the graphics and content using a website design tool (like FrontPage). The designer likely makes extensive changes to achieve the final result.

Considered CUSTOM. Since it is a substantial copy of another site, it really isn't "custom" at all.

Develop a website by modifying standard website structural elements (header, footer, body) using WebCubic's advanced customization functions. When these elements are assembled, they form a website. Any number of pages may be created - each with its unique design.

Considered CUSTOM. Even though a traditional tool is not used, all graphical, design, and content are individually created and assembled. If it is a substantial copy of another site, it isn't "custom".

Start with a standard template and create custom graphic elements in the header to generate a unique website. The home page may be uniquely designed by inserting HTML and JavaScript code. Additional pages are configured by using unique text with standard page layouts. There are a limited set of functions that can be added to the site.

Considered SEMI-CUSTOM or CONFIGURED but not CUSTOM

Start with a standard template and configure text, graphics, and layout by selecting choices. There are limited functional elements that can be added.

Considered CONFIGURED

Almost all of the major website design providers use templates and therefore create websites that are either SEMI-CUSTOM or CONFIGURED. There are a few pure CUSTOM website designers. The few additional ones create CUSTOM websites by either copying another design or using a pre-defined structure.