#Web To Print Software Market

[ajinkya-2012]

Web To Print Software Market

[techorage]

Unlocking the Essence of a Software Development Company: 3 Intriguing Facets

Dive into the dynamic world of software development as we unravel the fascinating layers of a Software Development Company. From cutting-edge technology to the art of innovation, explore three intriguing facets that define the essence of modern software development companies. Discover how they shape the digital landscape and revolutionize industries.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Book Cover

“Don’t judge a book by it’s cover!” We’ve all heard the phrase and we all know that’s impossible. Because the cover of a book is the first thing a potential reader sees—it should stop them in their tracks. It’s a very powerful marketing tool; having a well-designed book cover is crucial.

Tips for Making a Great Book Cover Design

Using more than two to three typefaces on a cover is discouraged, as it can look really messy.

Keep things simple. Your cover will be in a sea of other covers so try to keep your design from getting muddy and make sure it stands out.

Show your designs to people who have a design eye and/or you trust. It’s great to get feedback.

If you hire a professional designer, write a brief and send them info. Be really clear on what you want. Designers usually do a certain number of design rounds included in the agreed upon fee and any extra rounds of design will be extra.

If you hire a professional designer, they will likely have ideas about printing and may have connections to printers. They are a resource so don’t forget to ask questions.

Don’t forget: a book cover is an important part of selling any book. Whether you decide to do it yourself or collaborate with a professional, pay special attention to this part of the process, as a great cover goes a long way.

6-Step Guide: Professional Book Cover

STEP ONE Generate Ideas. Look around at book covers you like. Go to a bookshop and peruse what’s currently happening in book cover design. Take notes of what elements you like on the cover image. A certain typeface? Color? Do you prefer an image or an illustration or something purely typographic on the cover? Another option is to create a mood board. You can use a platform like Pinterest or Evernote, or create a folder on your desktop, and pull book cover inspiration from the web. While you’re gathering inspiration, keep in mind what genre your book is and what kind of book design feels appropriate.

STEP TWO Find a Designer (Who Could Be You!). Do you have design skills? If so, your next step is to begin layouts and mock-ups of the covers. You should use whatever software program you are comfortable with. Most professional book cover designers use a program from the Adobe Creative Suite:

InDesign. InDesign is a multi-page design platform but can also be used for single page design.

Photoshop. Used to manipulate and experiment with photography.

Illustrator. Illustrator is a vector-based program, which means you can create graphic art that can be scaled up or down without loss of quality.

Photoshop and Illustrator. These can also be used together as you can bring your Photoshop file into Illustrator to set the type after you have worked with your cover image.

If you don’t have design skills, now is a great time to hire a book cover designer. The first step is to figure out what kind of budget you have for this. A designer’s fee will range depending on their expertise. Get a figure in mind and then write a design brief which should include the book specs:

Size

Print-run

Intended audience

Where and how the book will be published

Anticipated publish date

You should also include a summary of what the book is about and what you are looking for in a cover. Also share the inspiration you’ve gathered with the designer.

If you don’t have design skills but want to create the cover without the help of a professional, there are a few software programs you can use, such as Canva or 100 Covers, design tools that allow you to DIY the cover (for free or a fee).

STEP THREE Decide on the Dimensions. If you’re self-publishing and printing with a local printer you can work with them to make sure your book dimensions will fit on their printer (remember a book prints front, back, and spine in one sheet of paper). It’s also a good idea to find examples of books whose size you like and feels good to hold. Use that as a jumping off point for your book.

Book Cover Dimensions List. If you are printing for a specific market, from print to ebook, here is a handy list:

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing File Format: JPEG or TIFF Cover Size (Recommended): 2560x1600 pixels Cover Size Requirements: between 1000x625 pixels and 10,000x10,000 pixels (one side must be at least 1000)

Apple iBooks File Format: JPEG or PNG Cover Size (Recommended): 1400x1873 or 1600x2400 pixels Cover Size Requirements: at least 1400 pixels wide

Barnes & Noble File Format: JPEG or PNG Cover Size (Recommended): Rectangle height and width, at least 1400 pixels Cover Size Requirements: Min. 750 pixels height and width

Kobo Books File Format: JPEG or PNG Cover Size (Recommended): 1600x2400 pixels Cover Size Requirements: Min. 1400 pixels width

Smashwords File Format: JPEG or PNG Cover Size (Recommended): 1600x2400 pixels Cover Size Requirements: Min. 1400 pixels width Draft2Digital

File Format: JPEG Cover Size (Recommended): 1600x2400 pixels Cover Size Requirements: Tall rectangle

STEP FOUR Choose Your Style

Photo-based cover. If you’re creating an photo-based book cover, you’ll need to source stock imagery. There are lots of great resources online to find stock imagery including ShutterStock, Getty Images, and Adobe Stock. (Keep in mind: most photography archives require payment to use their images. Always investigate the copyright of images you’re interested in using.) Look for images that convey or allude to your book’s genre. You can use programs like Photoshop to manipulate your image, making it black and white instead of color or cropping it in a certain way.

Illustration-based cover. If you’re considering a more graphic approach to your cover, Illustrator is the tool to use. You can bring hand-drawn drawings into it and outline them to create scale-able, high-res illustrations which you can manipulate within the program. You can also create shapes, patterns, experiment with typography within illustrator and play with color, transparency, size and much more.

Typography-based cover. Finally, many successful book covers use typography as the main graphic device. This takes some skill and knowledge of typefaces, the historical context of a typeface, and how to manipulate it thoughtfully. That said, using type as a graphic can be very impactful.

STEP FIVE Pick a Typeface (Font). No matter what kind of cover you are designing, you are going to need the title of the book and the author’s name on the cover. As mentioned above, picking an appropriate typeface is very important. You want to pick something that feels right for your book—is it a sans serif or serif? A heavy weight or lighter weight? You want to make sure it’s not something with a lot of baggage, like Comic Sans or Papyrus. It is a good idea to actually do a little research on when, where, and who your typeface was designed by to give you context and feel out if it will be right for your book. You might also consider using up to two different typefaces, one for the title and one for your name. A serif and sans-serif mix can give a bit of contrast and visual interest. There are some typefaces that pair really well together. Check out the website TypeWolf to get ideas of what fonts pair well together.

STEP SIX Test, Tweak, and Repeat. Once you have a few versions of your cover, print them out on your home printer and take a look with a critical eye. Does the type size feel chunky? Too bold? Too small? How does your image look? Is it cropped right? Are the lines of your illustrations too thin and not showing up? Go back and refine your design and then repeat! Don’t forget to look at your book cover as a small thumbnail as well. People are on their mobile phones and you want to make sure your cover still stands out and is impactful.

Book Cover - serves as your first impression with potential readers—and though book covers don’t always look the same, they do tend to contain the same essential elements.

Design standards may be different in the world of traditional publishing than they are in self publishing, and book cover templates for physical paper books may differ from those of ebooks—but they all serve the same purpose.

Some Functions of a Book Cover

A book’s cover provides essential information. At its most elemental, a good cover includes a book’s title, the author’s name, the publisher, and the price.

A good cover offers clues about your book’s content and tone. Your cover design indicates whether your book is a work of high-minded literary fiction, a pulpy page turner, or a compelling work of non-fiction.

A front cover reveals a book’s genre. You can usually tell if you’re holding a thriller, a memoir, a sci-fi epic, or a nineteenth century classic just by looking at a book’s cover art and typography.

A back cover offers broader context. It may feature quotes from reviewers and fellow authors. Softcover books may contain a plot summary or author biography on the back; those summaries and bios are typically moved to the inner flaps of a hardcover book.

How to Hire a Professional Book Cover Designer

Book covers are marketing materials, and a well-designed professional cover can make your book stand out among the competition. If you want someone with expertise in the realm of cover design to work on your book, you may want to hire a professional book cover designer. Here are some steps to consider when hiring creatives to design your book cover:

Hire a cover artist. A cover artist produces the cover art and imagery that will appear on your book cover, either on their own or with heavy input from an author or publisher.

Hire a graphic designer. Certain graphic designers specialize in layout; they incorporate cover art that you provide them—whether that’s an original illustration, photograph, or even a stock image—into the overall design of the cover.

Find a cover designer online. Reedsy is one of a number of online resources for independent authors, self-publishers, and anyone connected to the world of books. Many professional book designers list their services on Reedsy.

Use your personal network. Seek out writers’ groups, either locally or on Facebook. In these groups, people share professional referrals and help support one another when a member has a new book in the works. A group of like-minded individuals can be an invaluable resource when creating your own book cover for the first time.

When to Call a Pro:

You have a budget (a designer’s fee will vary depending on experience and location).

You have enough time to work with the designer.

You have a clear idea of what you want or at least what you don’t want.

You don’t have any design skills.

You don’t want to invest in the design software.

Your book isn’t selling.

How to Design a Book Cover Yourself

If you don’t have the budget for a pro designer or just have a DIY itch you want to scratch, it is easier than ever to design your own book cover. While it may not be quite as rudimentary as when you covered your textbooks in a brown paper bag back in fifth grade, modern technology has made cover image design accessible to anyone with a computer. Here are some tips:

Use a template. There are numerous websites that offer book cover templates and step-by-step tutorials covering basic cover design skills. Some even have a free book cover creator tool, along with cover ideas, design tips, pre-made design templates, and digital cover image tools.

Use standard design software. Book covers can also be made using standard home computing software including Photoshop, Microsoft Word, and even (with a little sweat equity) Google Docs. This is particularly easy if you are importing a pre-made cover image from another source.

Make a prototype. The process for assembling a book is straightforward and satisfying. If you want to test out how your book will appear in print, you can learn to bind a copy yourself.

When to DIY:

You don’t have any budget for design.

You have design skills to do it yourself.

You have the design software.

You have a template and know exactly what you want.

You have people with an eye for design that can guide you.

How to Make a Hardcover Book

So you’re ready to bind your own book. Here’s what you’ll need:

Content, of course.

Uncoated printer paper for book pages

Decorative paper for endpapers, such as wrapping paper or cardstock

Davey board (aka bookbinder’s board), thin chipboard, or cardboard for the book covers

Craft knife

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue such as Elmer’s glue

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Ruler or straight edge

A long stapler

Thin fabric or book cloth for cover

Binder clips

Thick decorative paper (optional, for dust jacket)

Paper trimmer (optional, for trimming book pages)

Paintbrush (optional, for spreading glue)

There’s more than one way to bind a book, and you’ll find tons of great tutorials online for making homemade books, including Japanese bookbinding and perfect bound softcover books. The most popular style of hardcover book binding is called case binding, which is traditionally done by stitching pages together with thread. Here is how to make a hardcover book step-by-step—no sewing or special materials required:

Assemble the content. The number of pages and the type of paper you work with depends on whether you’re binding a novel, a full-color photo book, or a sketchbook. Familiarize yourself with the format by taking some hardcover books down from your bookshelf and observing how they were made.

Format your pages. If you’re creating a blank book, you can skip this step. If you’re printing a book with text, you'll need to format the text so that you can print it into a book. You can get help with this at a copy shop, or you can download book design software and print at home. Eventually, you’ll end up with a PDF with a page count. This page count has to be divisible by four so that your book can be bound as folios made up of eight sheets of paper (32 pages) each. You may need to add some blank pages at the end of the book to keep your page count correct for the folios.

Print and fold. Once all of your pages are printed, fold pages in half and stack eight within each other, making sure the pages are in the correct order. Staple the folios together in the folds, alternating the location of the staples so that you don’t end up with a bulge in the spine.

Bind your folios together. Arrange all of the folios in the correct order and flatten them between heavy books. Once your folios are flat, it’s time to glue them together. Hold the folios together with binder clips and use a glue gun to glue the folios together along the stapled edge. This will become your book’s spine. Be careful not to overdo it on the glue: Use just enough to keep the folios together. Before the glue cools, use a thin piece of fabric to cover the spine only.

Even out the pages. Carefully trim the edges of the pages with a paper trimmer or craft knife, if needed.

Make the hardcovers. Cut two pieces of cardboard for the front and back covers of your book. For the spine, cut a piece of cardboard that is the same height as the front and back covers, with a width equal to the thickness of the spine plus the front and back covers.

Attach the hardcovers. Paint the cardboard (both covers and the spine piece) with a thin layer of PVA glue and attach to the cloth you’ll use to cover your book, leaving a space between the covers and the spine equal to one and a half times the thickness of the cardboard. Let dry.

Assemble the book. Use PVA glue to attach the fabric-lined spine of your bound folios to the cardboard spine. Keep the book propped up between other books while you wait for it to dry.

Attach the endpapers. Trim the paper lining so that it’s twice the size of the first page and fold it in half. Paint glue onto the inside of the front cover and the front page, and attach paper lining. Repeat with the back cover.

Make the dust jacket. If you’d like to cover your book with a dust jacket, measure a piece of thick decorative paper as tall as your book and as wide as the entire book, plus a few extra inches to fold over the edge of the cover. Fold the dust jacket over the bound book. Lay another heavy book on top of it to help the dust jacket keep its shape. This is the place to add a cover design, if you’d like.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

[mostlysignssomeportents]

A link-clump demands a linkdump

Cometh the weekend, cometh the linkdump. My daily-ish newsletter includes a section called "Hey look at this," with three short links per day, but sometimes those links get backed up and I need to clean house. Here's the eight previous installments:

https://pluralistic.net/tag/linkdump/

The country code top level domain (ccTLD) for the Caribbean island nation of Anguilla is .ai, and that's turned into millions of dollars worth of royalties as "entrepreneurs" scramble to sprinkle some buzzword-compliant AI stuff on their businesses in the most superficial way possible:

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/08/ai-fever-turns-anguillas-ai-domain-into-a-digital-gold-mine/

All told, .ai domain royalties will account for about ten percent of the country's GDP.

It's actually kind of nice to see Anguilla finding some internet money at long last. Back in the 1990s, when I was a freelance web developer, I got hired to work on the investor website for a publicly traded internet casino based in Anguilla that was a scammy disaster in every conceivable way. The company had been conceived of by people who inherited a modestly successful chain of print-shops and decided to diversify by buying a dormant penny mining stock and relaunching it as an online casino.

But of course, online casinos were illegal nearly everywhere. Not in Anguilla – or at least, that's what the founders told us – which is why they located their servers there, despite the lack of broadband or, indeed, reliable electricity at their data-center. At a certain point, the whole thing started to whiff of a stock swindle, a pump-and-dump where they'd sell off shares in that ex-mining stock to people who knew even less about the internet than they did and skedaddle. I got out, and lost track of them, and a search for their names and business today turns up nothing so I assume that it flamed out before it could ruin any retail investors' lives.

Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory, one of those former British colonies that was drained and then given "independence" by paternalistic imperial administrators half a world away. The country's main industries are tourism and "finance" – which is to say, it's a pearl in the globe-spanning necklace of tax- and corporate-crime-havens the UK established around the world so its most vicious criminals – the hereditary aristocracy – can continue to use Britain's roads and exploit its educated workforce without paying any taxes.

This is the "finance curse," and there are tiny, struggling nations all around the world that live under it. Nick Shaxson dubbed them "Treasure Islands" in his outstanding book of the same name:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780230341722/treasureislands

I can't imagine that the AI bubble will last forever – anything that can't go on forever eventually stops – and when it does, those .ai domain royalties will dry up. But until then, I salute Anguilla, which has at last found the internet riches that I played a small part in bringing to it in the previous century.

The AI bubble is indeed overdue for a popping, but while the market remains gripped by irrational exuberance, there's lots of weird stuff happening around the edges. Take Inject My PDF, which embeds repeating blocks of invisible text into your resume:

https://kai-greshake.de/posts/inject-my-pdf/

The text is tuned to make resume-sorting Large Language Models identify you as the ideal candidate for the job. It'll even trick the summarizer function into spitting out text that does not appear in any human-readable form on your CV.

Embedding weird stuff into resumes is a hacker tradition. I first encountered it at the Chaos Communications Congress in 2012, when Ang Cui used it as an example in his stellar "Print Me If You Dare" talk:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njVv7J2azY8

Cui figured out that one way to update the software of a printer was to embed an invisible Postscript instruction in a document that basically said, "everything after this is a firmware update." Then he came up with 100 lines of perl that he hid in documents with names like cv.pdf that would flash the printer when they ran, causing it to probe your LAN for vulnerable PCs and take them over, opening a reverse-shell to his command-and-control server in the cloud. Compromised printers would then refuse to apply future updates from their owners, but would pretend to install them and even update their version numbers to give verisimilitude to the ruse. The only way to exorcise these haunted printers was to send 'em to the landfill. Good times!

Printers are still a dumpster fire, and it's not solely about the intrinsic difficulty of computer security. After all, printer manufacturers have devoted enormous resources to hardening their products against their owners, making it progressively harder to use third-party ink. They're super perverse about it, too – they send "security updates" to your printer that update the printer's security against you – run these updates and your printer downgrades itself by refusing to use the ink you chose for it:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/11/ink-stained-wretches-battle-soul-digital-freedom-taking-place-inside-your-printer

It's a reminder that what a monopolist thinks of as "security" isn't what you think of as security. Oftentimes, their security is antithetical to your security. That was the case with Web Environment Integrity, a plan by Google to make your phone rat you out to advertisers' servers, revealing any adblocking modifications you might have installed so that ad-serving companies could refuse to talk to you:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/08/02/self-incrimination/#wei-bai-bai

WEI is now dead, thanks to a lot of hueing and crying by people like us:

https://www.theregister.com/2023/11/02/google_abandons_web_environment_integrity/

But the dream of securing Google against its own users lives on. Youtube has embarked on an aggressive campaign of refusing to show videos to people running ad-blockers, triggering an arms-race of ad-blocker-blockers and ad-blocker-blocker-blockers:

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/where-will-the-ad-versus-ad-blocker-arms-race-end/

The folks behind Ublock Origin are racing to keep up with Google's engineers' countermeasures, and there's a single-serving website called "Is uBlock Origin updated to the last Anti-Adblocker YouTube script?" that will give you a realtime, one-word status update:

https://drhyperion451.github.io/does-uBO-bypass-yt/

One in four web users has an ad-blocker, a stat that Doc Searls pithily summarizes as "the biggest boycott in world history":

https://doc.searls.com/2015/09/28/beyond-ad-blocking-the-biggest-boycott-in-human-history/

Zero app users have ad-blockers. That's not because ad-blocking an app is harder than ad-blocking the web – it's because reverse-engineering an app triggers liability under IP laws like Section 1201 of the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, which can put you away for 5 years for a first offense. That's what I mean when I say that "IP is anything that lets a company control its customers, critics or competitors:

https://locusmag.com/2020/09/cory-doctorow-ip/

I predicted that apps would open up all kinds of opportunities for abusive, monopolistic conduct back in 2010, and I'm experiencing a mix of sadness and smugness (I assume there's a German word for this emotion) at being so thoroughly vindicated by history:

https://memex.craphound.com/2010/04/01/why-i-wont-buy-an-ipad-and-think-you-shouldnt-either/

The more control a company can exert over its customers, the worse it will be tempted to treat them. These systems of control shift the balance of power within companies, making it harder for internal factions that defend product quality and customer interests to win against the enshittifiers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/28/microincentives-and-enshittification/

The result has been a Great Enshittening, with platforms of all description shifting value from their customers and users to their shareholders, making everything palpably worse. The only bright side is that this has created the political will to do something about it, sparking a wave of bold, muscular antitrust action all over the world.

The Google antitrust case is certainly the most important corporate lawsuit of the century (so far), but Judge Amit Mehta's deference to Google's demands for secrecy has kept the case out of the headlines. I mean, Sam Bankman-Fried is a psychopathic thief, but even so, his trial does not deserve its vastly greater prominence, though, if you haven't heard yet, he's been convicted and will face decades in prison after he exhausts his appeals:

https://newsletter.mollywhite.net/p/sam-bankman-fried-guilty-on-all-charges

The secrecy around Google's trial has relaxed somewhat, and the trickle of revelations emerging from the cracks in the courthouse are fascinating. For the first time, we're able to get a concrete sense of which queries are the most lucrative for Google:

https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/1/23941766/google-antitrust-trial-search-queries-ad-money

The list comes from 2018, but it's still wild. As David Pierce writes in The Verge, the top twenty includes three iPhone-related terms, five insurance queries, and the rest are overshadowed by searches for customer service info for monopolistic services like Xfinity, Uber and Hulu.

All-in-all, we're living through a hell of a moment for piercing the corporate veil. Maybe it's the problem of maintaining secrecy within large companies, or maybe the the rampant mistreatment of even senior executives has led to more leaks and whistleblowing. Either way, we all owe a debt of gratitude to the anonymous leaker who revealed the unbelievable pettiness of former HBO president of programming Casey Bloys, who ordered his underlings to create an army of sock-puppet Twitter accounts to harass TV and movie critics who panned HBO's shows:

https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-features/hbo-casey-bloys-secret-twitter-trolls-tv-critics-leaked-texts-lawsuit-the-idol-1234867722/

These trolling attempts were pathetic, even by the standards of thick-fingered corporate execs. Like, accusing critics who panned the shitty-ass Perry Mason reboot of disrespecting veterans because the fictional Mason's back-story had him storming the beach on D-Day.

The pushback against corporate bullying is everywhere, and of course, the vanguard is the labor movement. Did you hear that the UAW won their strike against the auto-makers, scoring raises for all workers based on the increases in the companies' CEO pay? The UAW isn't done, either! Their incredible new leader, Shawn Fain, has called for a general strike in 2028:

https://www.404media.co/uaw-calls-on-workers-to-line-up-massive-general-strike-for-2028-to-defeat-billionaire-class/

The massive victory for unionized auto-workers has thrown a spotlight on the terrible working conditions and pay for workers at Tesla, a criminal company that has no compunctions about violating labor law to prevent its workers from exercising their legal rights. Over in Sweden, union workers are teaching Tesla a lesson. After the company tried its illegal union-busting playbook on Tesla service centers, the unionized dock-workers issued an ultimatum: respect your workers or face a blockade at Sweden's ports that would block any Tesla from being unloaded into the EU's fifth largest Tesla market:

https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-sweden-strike/

Of course, the real solution to Teslas – and every other kind of car – is to redesign our cities for public transit, walking and cycling, making cars the exception for deliveries, accessibility and other necessities. Transitioning to EVs will make a big dent in the climate emergency, but it won't make our streets any safer – and they keep getting deadlier.

Last summer, my dear old pal Ted Kulczycky got in touch with me to tell me that Talking Heads were going to be all present in public for the first time since the band's breakup, as part of the debut of the newly remastered print of Stop Making Sense, the greatest concert movie of all time. Even better, the show would be in Toronto, my hometown, where Ted and I went to high-school together, at TIFF.

Ted is the only person I know who is more obsessed with Talking Heads than I am, and he started working on tickets for the show while I starting pricing plane tickets. And then, the unthinkable happened: Ted's wife, Serah, got in touch to say that Ted had been run over by a car while getting off of a streetcar, that he was severely injured, and would require multiple surgeries.

But this was Ted, so of course he was still planning to see the show. And he did, getting a day-pass from the hospital and showing up looking like someone from a Kids In The Hall sketch who'd been made up to look like someone who'd been run over by a car:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/doctorow/53182440282/

In his Globe and Mail article about Ted's experience, Brad Wheeler describes how the whole hospital rallied around Ted to make it possible for him to get to the movie:

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/music/article-how-a-talking-heads-superfan-found-healing-with-the-concert-film-stop/

He also mentions that Ted is working on a book and podcast about Stop Making Sense. I visited Ted in the hospital the day after the gig and we talked about the book and it sounds amazing. Also? The movie was incredible. See it in Imax.

That heartwarming tale of healing through big suits is a pretty good place to wrap up this linkdump, but I want to call your attention to just one more thing before I go: Robin Sloan's Snarkmarket piece about blogging and "stock and flow":

https://snarkmarket.com/2010/4890/

Sloan makes the excellent case that for writers, having a "flow" of short, quick posts builds the audience for a "stock" of longer, more synthetic pieces like books. This has certainly been my experience, but I think it's only part of the story – there are good, non-mercenary reasons for writers to do a lot of "flow." As I wrote in my 2021 essay, "The Memex Method," turning your commonplace book into a database – AKA "blogging" – makes you write better notes to yourself because you know others will see them:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/05/09/the-memex-method/

This, in turn, creates a supersaturated, subconscious solution of fragments that are just waiting to nucleate and crystallize into full-blown novels and nonfiction books and other "stock." That's how I came out of lockdown with nine new books. The next one is The Lost Cause, a hopepunk science fiction novel about the climate whose early fans include Naomi Klein, Rebecca Solnit, Bill McKibben and Kim Stanley Robinson. It's out on November 14:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250865939/the-lost-cause

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/11/05/variegated/#nein

[ao3cassandraic]

I'm a little confused, what trouble did the Internet Archive get into exactly?

By this I mean, is it going down? Or is it just dealing with politics behind the scenes?

(I occasionally find the Internet Archive to be useful, so I hope it doesn't disappear)

Okay, so, it helps to have context here. First, IA.

IA has its fingers in several pies:

the Wayback Machine (and allied services such as Archive-It) for website preservation

software (including game) preservation

print digitization, which started (I think) as an add-on to software preservation (because manuals matter!) and expanded to pretty much whatever print IA could get its hands on

a lending system for the above digitized collection, known as the "Open Library"

lately, machine-learning tools intended to operate over its digitized-print collections (it's still building this out, I've seen some of the grant applications) -- nothing generative-AI-like yet that I know of, however

A lot of this work is only dubiously and uncertainly within the scope of US copyright. (N.b. IANAL, IANYL, I am certainly not Internet Archive's lawyer, TINLA.) IA takes refuge largely in audacity, and in the centrality of the Wayback Machine to web preservation generally. So they have been known to pull the "if we lose this legal case totally unrelated to web preservation and have to pay gonzo fines, Wayback is in peril!" ripcord.

Is this true? Hell if I know, I don't audit IA's books. I doubt it, though.

What they're in trouble for -- what an appeals court shot them all the way down for yesterday -- is what they did with their Open Library of digitized print books, many of them in-copyright, during COVID lockdown. And to understand all that, we have to untangle some things about US copyright. Ugh, somebody hand me a read-more link.

Why can libraries lend print books, vinyl, cassettes, CDs, and DVDs in the US? Because of a legal doctrine called "the first sale right," which goes like this: if you have a legally-produced physical object containing copyrighted material, you can do whatever the fuck you want with that physical object with zero copyright implications --other than reproduce/copy or perform it (which does have copyright implications, complex ones).

You can (yes) burn it. You can lend it to a friend, or an enemy, or a random stranger. You can give it away. You can throw it away. You can resell it. You can hang it on your wall or in your window. You can make an art installation with it. And the copyright owner cannot win a copyright-based lawsuit over any of this, even if they hate what you're doing! Even if it competes with them selling new copies (as the resale market absolutely does, and as some jerkfaced copyright owners -- usually corporations, not authors! -- love to complain that libraries do)!

Here's the thing, though, and it's an important thing so I'm gonna big-type it:

The right of first sale does not apply to anything digital ever.

Not ebooks (digitized or born-digital, doesn't matter). Not streaming anything. Not paywalled online news or research.

When libraries offer these to patrons, it's through contracts with publishers or aggregators. Long story short, a lot of these contracts are ridiculously restrictive (not to mention expensive) to the point of cartoonish evil, but it's what we have to work with.

The idea behind Controlled Digital Lending is "if libraries purchased a physical item legally, we should get to lend the item to one person at a time as we always have, and it shouldn't actually matter whether what we lend is the physical item or a digital version of it, as long as only one or the other is out to a patron at a given time."

Which is an untested legal theory! I can't tell you whether it's legal! Nobody can! The case law doesn't exist! Yeah yeah, there's relevant past cases in both directions having to do with accessibility or Google Books or whatever, but a specific precedential ruling on CDL is not a thing that presently exists.

No, not even now. Because what IA did with its Open Library during lockdown, and got slapped down for by the court, is not CDL as defined above. IA didn't hold to one-person-at-a-time-per-book. They tried to make a fair-use argument for what they actually did (that is, not for actual CDL), and the court was not having it.

The thing is, IA's stumblebummed legal fuckup means that actual CDL, as actual libraries (n.b. the IA is not an actual library or an actual archives, I will happily die on this hill, I loathe IA like poison and do not want to admit them to my profession, IA people have dissed me and my work TO MY ACTUAL PHYSICAL FACE and they only love libraries or librarians when trying to hide behind us) were trying to design and implement it, now faces additional legal hurdles. Any court looking at an actual CDL program has to take into account IA getting slapped down. And that's if we can even find a library or library consortium with deep enough pockets and hardcore enough legal representation to even defend such a case.

The thing also is, IA just issued Big Publishing a gilt-edged invitation to use this precedent to sue actual libraries, especially academic libraries, over other things we do. (I'm gonna pass over exactly what in silence because I do not want to give those fuckers ideas, but... there have been past lawsuits, look 'em up.) THANKS, BREWSTER. THANKS EVER SO. Asshole.

For a calmer take than mine, check out Library Futures, which to their credit has not given up all hope for CDL.

This IS the short version of all this nonsense, believe me. I used to teach a whole entire three-credit graduate-level course in the long version. (Which IA would doubtless diss to my face if they knew about it.)

[k00325957]

Graphic Design Communication is my choice.

Why? Because I love working with images. I enjoy working with visuals, creating compositions, and developing ideas. I also like that the process is mostly clean and structured. There’s no mess, just creativity and precision.

One of my favorite things about design is working with concepts. I like developing ideas, exploring themes, and creating meaning through visuals. It’s not just about making things look nice but also about telling a story and making an impact.

One of the biggest reasons I chose this field is that I had the chance to try it before. My two years at LCFE gave me the opportunity to experiment with different areas of design and understand that this is what I truly love.

I also love technology. Since I was a child, I have enjoyed computers, gadgets, and new tech. I like working with digital tools, trying new design software, and using technology to create something interesting.

My Experience in Visual Arts

Before studying at TUS, I worked in a photo studio many years ago as an artist-designer. I mostly worked with portraits and edited images, focusing on composition and aesthetics. I also designed photo books for weddings, families, and children’s photography. That experience helped me develop an eye for beauty, structure, and strong compositions.

I also had a short experience in a web studio, where I worked on websites, logos, business cards, and other branding materials. Even then, I enjoyed clean and polished designs. I like working with color, typography, and layouts that feel balanced and well-structured.

What I Like About Studying at TUS

One of the best things about TUS is the creative freedom we have. The assignments are broad, so we can explore topics that really interest us. I like that I can dive deep into a subject that I care about or that is important for society.

I also enjoy typography. It’s interesting how fonts affect branding, mood, and even sales. Small details like this can completely change how a design feels.

My Interest in Printmaking

Printmaking is also something I really love. I enjoyed the process, but it was physically hard for me, and I don’t like working in a messy environment. Still, I hope to keep printmaking as part of my design work, maybe through risograph printing, screen printing, or other techniques.

Looking Ahead

Graphic design is very connected to people. My past experience in marketing taught me how visual design affects people’s subconscious. I think this will help me in the future when I work on posters, branding, or other projects.

Illustrated books have also been a big part of my life. One day, I hope to illustrate and publish my own book, combining my love for design, storytelling, and print media.

For me, graphic design is more than just a career. It’s a way to combine creativity, technology, and communication. That’s why I’m excited about this journey.

[dollar2host]

What Is a White Label Product and How Does It Work?

It's possible that products offered by some of the most well-known corporations in the world are not as uncommon as you might think. The company that actually produces their branded products is an outsider that markets the same things under different labels. White labelling is a well-known commercial strategy that is applied to numerous consumer product categories.

What does white label mean?

The practice of producing goods and marketing them under several brand names is known as "white labelling." Although white label products may differ in terms of branding, packaging, logos, and even prices, but their fundamental architecture remains the same. Limited product customization options, such as adding a brand logo or design on a product's exterior, may be available from white label manufacturers. In exchange for large orders, they might also give retailers discounts. After a purchase, products from other white label services, such print-on-demand businesses, are shipped straight to customers.

What are white label products?

White label products are produced by a different company than the one that markets or even sells them. The benefit is that multiple businesses can handle different aspects of the product development and sales process. Depending on their area of competence and inclination, three firms can concentrate on different aspects of the product: producing, marketing, and selling. The main advantages of white label branding for businesses are the time, energy, and financial savings on production and marketing expenses.

Another significant benefit of private label brands is that if a supermarket has an exclusive agreement with a manufacturer, the company may have cheaper average transportation costs and distributional economies of scale. The shop was able to offer the product for less and still make a larger profit margin due to decreased delivery expenses.

The rise in popularity of private label products indicates that customers are becoming less devoted to their preferred established brands and more price-conscious. The rise of private label brands in several nations is negatively impacting the market share of national brands or manufacturers.

White Label Branding Examples-

Electronics Industry:

Electronics manufacturers frequently white label their goods under different brand names. For example, a manufacturer may make tablets or smartphones for businesses that rebrand and sell the products under their own name.

Beauty and Personal Care:

The beauty and personal care industries are big on white labeling. A large number of private label cosmetic firms’ contract with other manufacturers to make their goods; these manufacturers create white label products and package them under the private label brands' names.

Grocery and Retail:

Frequently found in supermarkets and big-box stores, white label products are produced by outside vendors and marketed under the supermarket's own name. These consumer goods include everything from food products like snacks and canned foods to cleaning supplies and household goods.

Payment Processing:

White label payment processing solutions are frequently provided by payment gateway providers. This makes it possible for companies to seamlessly integrate the payment gateway into their operations and provide their clients payment processing services under their own identity.

Software: 

Numerous web hosting providers provide best white label solutions that can be altered and rebranded by other enterprises. Email marketing platforms offer white-label software alternatives that enable agencies to sell email marketing services under their own brand.

Financial Services:

Financial institutions sell financial services and goods to other businesses under a white label. White labeling branded credit cards, prepaid cards, and even banking solutions are examples of this, in which the partner company's branding and client experience are tailored.

Web Hosting:

White label hosting is a service that many web hosting providers provide. Because of this, resellers are able to offer web hosting packages under their own brands, with the main web hosting provider handling the setup and maintenance for the web hosting.

A huge number of people have discovered their calling in the web hosting industry, which has grown to be quite large. With over 126 million web hosting companies based there, its valuation is predicted to reach over $83 billion by 2021. White label hosting is a component of that sector. Reseller hosting is directly related to it.

It becomes an affordable option for small businesses to enter the web hosting industry and launch their own web hosting company when paired with white label reseller hosting. In order to help you resale hosting and launch your business, we will go over the steps and information you need to know in this post.

White Label Reseller Hosting: What Is It?

Finding a parent provider to purchase resources from and selling their servers, bandwidth, RAM, and other components are examples of this. You should not handle the technical specifications, server management, or maintenance on your own. It essentially lets you run your own web hosting company without having to deal with all the difficult technical aspects. Many providers also have their own reseller programs because it has become a popular choice among users.

Working of white label reseller hosting?

You need to first find a parent provider and buy a reseller plan in order to receive web hosting services if you want to engage in the white label web hosting industry and operate a reseller hosting website. Once you've selected a parent company, you can launch your hosting company.

With white label web hosting, you want to charge your clients more than you did when you bought the reseller plan and acquired the required resources from your parent provider. By doing this, you avoid having to spend any time or money on your own server setup or other resource purchases.

What does White label Reseller Hosting include?

User-Friendly Control Panel

An essential tool for managing websites is a user-friendly control panel. You can make backend changes and, if required, provide the client access via control panel access.

Scalable

If your clientele is growing or you're in charge of a website that needs more server power, reseller hosting should allow you to increase server resources.

Integrated Billing

WHM billing software, which enables you to bill your clients and oversee their payment schedules, is included in the majority of reseller accounts. Thanks to this, making sure your clients pay you on time is no longer a burden.

Integration of Domain and Email

With reseller accounts, you can sell domain names and email account upgrades. These can elevate your services when included in your hosting packages.

Private Name Servers

Thanks to private name servers, your brand and the hosting provider whose servers you're using will become more distinct.

Website hosting always remains in demand. White label hosting allows you to give your clients the choice of operating their server without requiring you to handle any of the expensive or challenging aspects of it.

Make sure to conduct thorough research before deciding on the ideal reseller plan for your company. Locate a reputable host that can provide the ideal server environment for you and your clients.

How White Label Solution Is Better?

There are a number of reasons why white label products might be the best option for your company as a business.

No risk

There is always some risk involved in starting your own business, but part of that danger can be reduced by white labelling your products. Because you're not spending as much money on creating a new product, risk is reduced.

Therefore, you won't lose as much money if the product doesn't work out in the market as you would if you had started from begin with its development. Select a white label product from a reliable supplier to further reduce your risk.

Improved quality assurance

Lastly, you may be confident that white label products will have superior quality control than those that you would make yourself. This is because, compared to you, the white label manufacturer is probably going to have a stronger quality control procedure.

Furthermore, since the white label manufacturer probably produces labels for other businesses, it usually has a group of quality control specialists on staff who can guarantee that the product fulfills your requirements.

Quicker to launch

White label products are also preferred since it can be considerably quicker to bring a product to market with them than it is to design one from the ground up. Once more, this is because you're just rebranding an already-existing product—the production process isn't being started from scratch. Hence, white labelling can be a fantastic choice if you want to launch a product rapidly.

The time to market is the largest advantage of white labelling. It can take months, or even years, to develop a product from scratch, find a manufacturer, and bring it to market. White labelling allows you to expedite that procedure and get your goods onto the market much faster.

More adaptability

Additionally, white label products provide more freedom than creating your own product. For instance, you still have control over the product's logo, packaging, and marketing if you white label it.

This implies that you can design a special product for your brand and customize it to your target market. Furthermore, even if you have less control over the production process, you still have a great deal of influence on how your customers are shown the goods.

Affordable

White label products are popular because they are an affordable means of launching a business. Best White labelling can be a big benefit, especially for small businesses, as it eliminates the upfront expenditures associated with product development, production, and marketing.

The largest financial benefit of white labelling, is that there are no expenses associated with product development or marketing. Rather, you're simply capitalizing on the success of another company's product, allowing you to launch your firm with less overhead and more swiftly."

Lower requirements for minimum orders

 also typically have lower minimum order quantities than if you were to produce the product yourself. This is so that the white label manufacturer won't have to start a new production line just to fill your little request because they already have the product in stock.

Therefore, white label products can be a terrific choice if you're just getting started and don't need many products. 

Conclusion-

White label products are produced by a same business, then packaged and marketed by other businesses under different brand names. It has been profitable for big-box stores to provide white label products with their own branding.

Since the late 1990s, private label branding has become a global phenomenon that has grown gradually. White label branding offers businesses a number of advantages, including reduced production and marketing expenses, time, and energy expenditures.

Dollar2host Dollar2host.com We provide expert Webhosting services for your desired needs Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube

[michael-jackson-vector-vault]

Michael Jackson Vector Face Drawing Pack

Download Link ↑

The "Michael Jackson Vector Face Drawing" pack is an essential companion for design enthusiasts and artists looking to capture the iconic essence of Michael Jackson through vector drawing. With a wide range of optimized and verified file formats, this pack provides immediate access to SVG, AI, EPS, PNG, JPEG, and PDF, ensuring unparalleled flexibility in the creative process.

Package Contents:

SVG Files: Perfect for scalable vector graphics, ideal for print and web.

AI Files: Compatible with Adobe Illustrator, offering full control over stroke manipulation.

EPS Files: Suitable for import into a variety of vector graphics software.

PNG Files: Transparency included for easy use on various colored backgrounds.

JPEG Files: Ideal for online sharing and high-quality printing.

PDF Files: Optimal for professional printing and document sharing.

Possible Artistic Applications:

T-shirts: Create unique shirts celebrating the music icon.

Murals: Immerse spaces with Michael Jackson's energy through bold and vibrant murals.

Mugs and Cups: Customize your daily beverages with the legendary face of MJ.

Tapestries: Add a touch of elegance to your home with Michael Jackson-inspired tapestries.

Stickers: Decorate laptops, bags, and more with stickers paying homage to the king of pop.

Flags: Display your love for Michael Jackson with custom flags.

Tattoos: Permanent or temporary, carry Michael Jackson's legacy on your skin.

Decals: Versatile decorations for cars, windows, and more.

Glass and Wood: Experiment with different materials to create unique art pieces.

Other Creative Possibilities: Let your imagination run wild and create unique items that reflect your passion for Michael Jackson.

Legal Usage:

This vector drawing can be used for both personal and commercial purposes. While you are free to sell your creations made with this graphic, resale of the source files and design is strictly prohibited, as well as online distribution of the files. This ensures the protection of the original artwork and its creators, preserving its value and authenticity in the creative market.

Final Note:

With the "Michael Jackson Vector Face Drawing" pack, Michael Jackson's artistic legacy comes to life through your creations. Explore the creative potential of this vector drawing and add a touch of the magic of the king of pop to your artistic projects.

[seoexpertbd33]

What kind of online business?

Online businesses vary greatly in terms of their structure and focus, catering to a wide range of niches and industries. Here are some different categories to explore:

E-commerce: This involves the sale of physical products online through platforms like Shopify, Amazon, or Etsy.

Digital Products: Creating and selling digital products such as ebooks, online courses, software, or downloadable templates.

Subscription Services: Providing subscription-based services where customers pay a recurring fee for access to exclusive content, products, or services.

Affiliate Marketing: Promoting products from other companies and earning a commission for each sale made through your referral.

Dropshipping: Operating an online store without the need to hold inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the product is shipped directly from the supplier to the customer.

Freelancing: Offering services like writing, graphic design, web development, or consulting on platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr.

Blogging/Vlogging: Creating content within a specific niche and monetizing it through advertising, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.

App Development: Developing and monetizing mobile apps through app stores or subscription models.

Online Consulting/Coaching: Providing expertise in a particular field through one-on-one coaching sessions, webinars, or group coaching programs.

Print-on-Demand: Designing custom products like t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases and selling them online without the need to hold inventory.

These are just a few examples, and the opportunities are vast. The most suitable type of online business for you will depend on your interests, skills, resources, and target audience.

onlineshopping #onlineshop #fashion #business #entrepreneur #digitalmarketing #onlinemarketing #blogger #style #hustle #love #entrepreneurlife #entrepreneurship #workfromhome #stylish #dresses #makemoneyonline #smallbusiness #marketing #moda2019 #followforfollowback #likeforlikeback #dressesforsale #onlineboutiqueshopping #liked #soirée #womeninbusiness #hustleharder #photooftheday #motivationalquotes

[ajinkya-2012]

Web To Print Software Market

[khandesigner247]

Exploring the Essence of Graphic Design: A Journey into Visual Communication

Exploring the Dynamic World of Graphic Design: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction:

Graphic design is a multifaceted discipline that intertwines creativity, technology, and communication to visually convey messages, evoke emotions, and inspire action. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the intricacies of graphic design, tracing its historical roots, examining its fundamental principles, and elucidating its evolving role in contemporary society.

Historical Evolution:

The history of graphic design dates back to ancient civilizations, where visual symbols and imagery were used to communicate ideas and concepts. From Egyptian hieroglyphics to illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages, graphic design has played a pivotal role in human communication throughout the ages. The advent of the printing press in the 15th century revolutionized the field, allowing for mass production of printed materials and the proliferation of typography and layout techniques.

The Industrial Revolution further propelled the evolution of graphic design, with advancements in printing technology enabling the creation of posters, advertisements, and packaging designs. The early 20th century witnessed the emergence of influential movements such as Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, and Art Deco, which shaped the aesthetic principles and design philosophies of the era.

Fundamental Principles:

At its core, graphic design is governed by a set of fundamental principles that guide the creation of visually harmonious and effective compositions. These principles include:

Composition: The arrangement of visual elements within a design space to achieve balance, unity, and hierarchy.

Typography: The art and technique of selecting and arranging typefaces to enhance readability, convey tone, and evoke emotion.

Color Theory: The study of color interactions and psychological effects, informing the use of color palettes to evoke specific moods and convey meaning.

Contrast: The juxtaposition of elements with differing visual properties to create emphasis, depth, and visual interest.

Balance: The distribution of visual weight within a composition to create stability and harmony.

Hierarchy: The organization of elements to guide the viewer's attention and convey the relative importance of information.

Gestalt Principles: The theory of perceptual organization, which explores how the human mind perceives and interprets visual stimuli, influencing the arrangement of elements in design.

Applications and Disciplines:

Graphic design encompasses a wide array of applications and disciplines, ranging from print media to digital platforms. Some of the key areas of graphic design include:

Branding and Identity: Creating cohesive visual identities that reflect the personality, values, and aspirations of organizations and brands.

Advertising and Marketing: Developing compelling campaigns and collateral materials that effectively communicate messages and engage target audiences.

Editorial Design: Designing layouts for books, magazines, newspapers, and other publications, balancing text and imagery to enhance readability and visual appeal.

Web and User Interface Design: Crafting intuitive and visually engaging interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and digital platforms, prioritizing user experience and accessibility.

Motion Graphics and Animation: Integrating dynamic visuals, typography, and effects to create engaging motion graphics, videos, and interactive experiences.

Environmental and Exhibition Design: Conceptualizing immersive spatial experiences, signage, and installations that enhance brand presence and engage audiences in physical environments.

Technological Advancements:

The advent of digital technology has revolutionized the practice of graphic design, empowering designers with powerful tools and techniques for creating and manipulating visual content. Graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign have become indispensable tools for designers, offering unparalleled flexibility and precision in design execution.

Furthermore, advancements in digital printing, 3D rendering, and augmented reality have expanded the possibilities of graphic design, enabling designers to explore new mediums and push the boundaries of visual storytelling. The rise of online platforms and social media has also transformed the landscape of graphic design, providing designers with global reach and unprecedented opportunities for collaboration and exposure.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Despite its ubiquity and relevance in modern society, graphic design faces a myriad of challenges in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. The democratization of design tools and the proliferation of online marketplaces have led to commoditization and downward pressure on pricing, challenging the sustainability of professional practice.

Moreover, the rapid pace of technological innovation and evolving consumer preferences necessitate constant adaptation and upskilling for designers to remain competitive in the field. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and diversification, as designers explore new niches, embrace emerging technologies, and champion ethical and sustainable design practices.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, graphic design is a dynamic and ever-evolving discipline that encompasses artistry, technology, and communication. From its humble origins in ancient civilizations to its pivotal role in shaping contemporary culture and commerce, graphic design continues to inspire, inform, and challenge our perceptions of the world around us.

As we embark on this journey through the world of graphic design, we celebrate the creativity, innovation, and passion that define this vibrant field, while acknowledging the profound impact it has on our lives and our collective imagination. As designers, creators, and storytellers, we have the power to shape narratives, ignite emotions, and transform ideas into reality through the art of graphic design.

[hrsoftbd]

HR soft BD is a dedicated and experienced OMR service provider in Bangladesh. We provide all type of OMR related services in Bangladesh, like OMR Sheet design, OMR sheet print, packaging, OMR sheet Evaluation/Scanning, OMR devices sales etc. HR soft BD provides a range of services to Government, Semi-Government and private organizations since 2014. Design OMR Sheets OMR Sheet Printing OMR Sheet Evaluation Export Results Where to Use ? :: * Recruitment process in Govt. /Private Organization and NGOs, Bank, Insurance Company etc. * Educational institutions i.e., Schools, Colleges and Universities etc. Other Services of HRsofTBD: • Website Design and Development. • Complex Web Application Development. • Software Development. • Android & IOS App Development. • Desktop Application Development. • OMR Solution. • Image Processing / AI / Big DATA Solution. • E-Commerce Solution. • Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution. • Time Attendance & HR Solution. • Bulk SMS & Voice SMS Marketing. • Domain & Hosting etc… Contact US::::: Registered Office: 48, KaziNazrul Islam Avenue, Karwan Bazar, Dhaka-1215. Corporate Office: P-7, Nurjahan Road, Mohammadpur, Dhaka 1207. Contact Numbers: +8801722158130, +8801709372481 Email Address: info@hrsoftbd.com

[marry-john]

Looking for the Top 10 Media Monitoring Services — Who Leads the Market?

In today’s fast-paced digital world, real-time insights are critical. Businesses, brands, and government agencies all rely on media monitoring services to track news, manage reputation, and respond swiftly to emerging trends. From print and broadcast to digital and social platforms, the demand for accurate and comprehensive monitoring has never been greater.

Here’s a look at the top media monitoring services providers leading the industry — helping organizations stay informed and proactive in an ever-evolving media landscape.

1. Vee Track

Vee Track stands out as a leader in the space, offering robust and customizable media monitoring services across print, TV, radio, digital, and social media. With a strong presence in India and international markets, Vee Track provides real-time alerts, analytical dashboards, and deep sentiment analysis. Known for its innovation and client-centric approach, it’s among the best media monitoring companies in India.

2. Meltwater

A global provider offering cloud-based monitoring tools, Meltwater tracks billions of content sources daily, helping businesses manage their media presence effectively.

3. Cision

Cision is widely recognized for its PR software and media analytics, supporting enterprises in monitoring, distributing, and analyzing media coverage.

4. Hootsuite Insights

Popular for social media tracking, Hootsuite Insights helps brands understand audience sentiment and emerging trends through data visualization.

5. Talkwalker

Known for its strong analytics capabilities, Talkwalker offers multilingual monitoring and brand intelligence, especially useful for global campaigns.

6. Brandwatch

Focused on digital consumer intelligence, Brandwatch provides powerful listening tools for trend analysis and competitor tracking.

7. Mention

This platform helps businesses monitor their brand mentions in real-time across the web and social platforms.

8. Sprinklr

Sprinklr delivers enterprise-level social media monitoring with AI-powered insights and custom reporting features.

9. Awario

Awario is ideal for small to mid-sized companies, offering cost-effective monitoring across major platforms.

10. Agility PR Solutions

Offers full-service media intelligence, including media contact databases and performance analytics.

Conclusion

Choosing the right partner for media monitoring services is essential for staying ahead in today’s dynamic media environment. The companies listed above, represent the best media monitoring companies in India and globally — providing real-time visibility, data-backed insights, and strategic value to organizations across industries.

[packagingworldinsights]

The 8 Best Workflow Automation Software Options for Printing Businesses

Print production is becoming more challenging and time-sensitive as time goes on. Some businesses still rely on manual processes that create inefficiencies in their workflows. Although it can be easy to fall back on outdated practices, printing packaging is moving forward to keep up with market demands.

To ensure companies continue to deliver high-quality results under tight turnaround times, printing businesses invest in the best workflow automation software. These tools help packaging printers in various ways, so it may be time to adopt one to maintain growth and keep things useful.

Key Benefits of Workflow Automation Software for Printing Businesses In packaging, printers balance increasing work volumes, greater customization demands and tighter deadlines. Traditional workflows often come with back-and-forth emails, file errors and miscommunications, quickly creating bottlenecks. A software solves this by creating a streamlined, centralized system that links every production stage.

Here are several ways workflow automation benefits packaging printing:

Improved speed and efficiency: Automated job routing and real-time status tracking allow jobs to move through production with fewer delays. Greater accuracy and consistency: Built-in checks and intelligent rules ensure files are print-ready and meet brand guidelines. Fewer manual touchpoints: Automation reduces repetitive tasks like preflighting, imposition and file approval. Stronger collaboration: Teams can communicate and review jobs in a shared platform, reducing miscommunication. Better use of resources: With fewer delays and errors, printers can increase throughput without adding staff. Best Workflow Automation Software for Printing Businesses Choosing the right tool can make a world of difference for packaging printers. Below are some of the top options trusted by packaging print professionals.

Fujifilm XMF Workflow Fujifilm XMF Workflow is an end-to-end production platform that can handle digital and offset jobs. XMF offers a hybrid workflow solution that prioritizes speed and seamless integration. With automation central to it, it reduces manual intervention while ensuring jobs move smoothly from file intake to press.

XMF also handles complex packaging projects precisely thanks to its imposition tools and full JDF architecture. When working across multiple sites, Fujifilm’s systems offer the capabilities to scale.

Key Features: Hybrid PDF/JDF workflow engine: Offers intelligent digital and offset packaging automation. Prepress tools: Built-in pre-flighting and imposition ensure files are print-ready. XMF remote integration: Enables cloud-based collaboration and online job approval from anywhere. Management information system (MIS) and press integration: Connects easily with third-party systems for a fully streamlined production line. Scalable architecture: Made to support growing volumes and increasingly complex job types.

Fiery Workflow Suite Fiery has a workflow suite that is a highly configurable automation platform that offers powerful job management, color consistency and interaction flexibility. It enables print service providers to streamline prepress, print and finishing operations.

Fiery JobFlow is one of its software features, which allows users to build automated workflows for routine tasks. When paired with Fiery Command WorkStation and Impose, the suite becomes comprehensive for managing demanding jobs.

Key Features: Fiery JobFlow: Automates repetitive tasks like file optimization, routing and approval. Fiery Command Workstation: Central hub for managing multiple printers and queues from a single interface. Color management tools: Delivers consistent, brand-accurate color across devices. Modular design: Scales with your needs. Integration ready: Easily connects to MIS, web-to-print and finishing solutions.

Kodak Prinergy Workflow Kodak Prinergy Workflow offers end-to-end automation capable of handling complex packaging production efficiently. It is built for high-volume print because it combines intelligence and cloud integration, so Pringergy helps packaging printers reduce errors and lower costs.

Prinergy is also a top tool because it centralizes job data and automates versioning. Additionally, it integrates with Kodak’s cloud-based Decision Analytics so printers have insight into their performance and bottlenecks.

Key Features: Automated versioning: Supports multi-SKU packaging runs with minimal manual setup. Unified job management: Centralizes prepress and production data across teams and locations. Cloud-connected Decision Analytics: Delivers insights to improve efficiency. Strong data security: Advanced encryption and backup options for protecting sensitive client files. Open integration: Easily connects with third-party systems, including MIS and raster image processor (RIP) solutions.

Esko Automation Engine Esko Automation Engine is purpose-built for the packaging and label printing industry. It offers powerful workflow automation that integrates well with Esko’s design, prepress and production tools. Automation Engine also standardizes and automates file handling and shortens lead times.

This tool allows users to build custom workflows. Its rule-based feature enables businesses to tailor specific customer or job requirements.

Key Features: Rule-based workflow automation: Customizes and automates file routing, pre-flighting and approvals. Integration with Esko Suite: Works seamlessly with ArtPro+, DeskPack and WebCenter for a complete design-to-print solution. Smart templates: Simplifies file prep for repeat jobs and variable packaging. Centralized asset management: Ensures consistency and regulatory compliance across projects. Cloud and on-prem options: Flexible deployment to suit your IT infrastructure.

Heidelberg Prinect Production Heidelberg offers Prinect Production, a full-service automation platform connecting every stage of the print production process. Prinect is especially great for offset and hybrid printing environments. It focuses on streamlining packaging by using automation and closed-loop data integration.

Prinect Production is a top tool because it automatically adjusts job parameters based on print specifications. This capability minimizes setup time, decreasing waste and costs in the long run.

Key Features: End-to-end workflow integration: Connects all production steps in a single automated system. Intelligent job presets: Automatically applies optimal settings based on job specs and substrates. Integrated color management: Ensures consistent print quality and brand accuracy. Real-time production monitoring: Tracks progress, bottlenecks and costs across jobs. MIS and press integration: Provides smooth communication between business and production systems.

ECO3 Apogee Workflow The Apogee workflow management system at ECO3 is a trusted solution among printers. It offers a suite of products and is excellent for prepress automation and intuitiveness. It is designed to simplify the most complex print jobs, optimizing production through smart automation and centralized job control.

With tools for automated imposition, advanced color management and web-to-print integration, Apogee helps printers ensure high-quality output. Its dashboard is also easy to use, allowing operators to monitor all jobs and keep production environments on track.

Key Features: Automated imposition and prepress: Speeds up file preparation while reducing the risk of errors. Apogee WebApproval: Allows clients and team members to review and approve jobs online. Color management suite: Maintains brand color accuracy across different substrates and presses. Seamless web-to-print integration: Enables easy intake of online orders and automates job setup. Centralized job dashboard: Offers full visibility into workflow progress and bottlenecks.

Onyx Thrive Workflow Software Onyx Thrive is a scalable, end-to-end workflow solution for wide-format and specialty printing environments. However, its automation features also bring value to printers managing signage, labels or custom short-run packaging. Thrive also works with Adobe PDF Print Engine, offering more color control and streamlined RIP.

While it is especially strong in wide-format and display graphics, its modular structure and easy setup make it a versatile option. It can also manage multiple printers simultaneously and optimize media usage for cost-effective production.

Key Features: Adobe PDF Print Engine: Delivers high-quality rendering and full PDF transparency support. Multi-device job management: Centralized control for running multiple jobs across printers and cutters. Automated job nesting and tiling: Improves material usage and efficiency. Integrated color management: Maintains consistency across media types and devices. Scalable licensing: Grows with your business without the need for additional hardware.

HYBRID Software CLOUDFLOW HYBRID Software offers CLOUDFLOW, a browser-based workflow automation platform for packaging and label printing. The tool is easy to adapt to each printer’s needs, whether automating prepress or managing variable data.

CLOUDFLOW’s greatest benefit is its collaborative packaging. It offers centralized asset management and dynamic approval tools. Because it is cloud-native, teams can access projects from anywhere securely.

Key Features: Cloud-based modular architecture: Deploy only the features needed and scale as the business grows. Centralized asset and metadata management: Supports version control, compliance and streamlined design updates. Automated prepress workflows: Handles trapping, step-and-repeat and QC tasks with minimal manual input. Web-based approval tools: Clients and teams can review and annotate files in the browser. Third-party integration: Easily connects to MIS, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and Esko tools through open APIs and JDF/JMF support. Key Considerations When Choosing a Workflow Automation Solution Choosing a workflow automation solution matters because having one that aligns with specific business needs guarantees long-term success. Keep these factors in mind:

Compatibility with existing systems: Make sure the software integrates with current MIS, RIPs, presses and finishing equipment. Compatibility reduces setup time and avoids costly workarounds. Scalability and modularity: Look for a platform to grow with the business. Modular systems enable users to start with the essentials and expand functionality over time without overpaying. Ease of use and training: A learning curve can stall implementation. Choose a solution that is easy to use and offers access to training resources. Automation depth: Assess how deeply the platform can automate a workflow. Deeper automation generally equals a higher return on investment. Remote access and collaboration tools: Especially for teams spread across locations, cloud-based access and live collaboration features are critical. Enhancing Printing Through Smart Automation Workflow software automation is an essential investment for printing. It can smooth out the bottlenecks and achieve a new level of productivity, so explore each solution to find one that supports current workloads. With research and testing, printing businesses can find the right fit that sets them up for long-term success.

[jashleenkaur123]

Graphic Design: Course, Career & Creativity at NIILM University

Graphic Design: A Creative Career Shaping the Visual World

In today’s digital-first world, graphic design plays a central role in how we perceive, engage, and interact with brands, messages, and media. From advertisements and logos to websites and packaging, design shapes our everyday experiences. The rise of digital media has created an ever-growing demand for skilled graphic designers who can combine creativity with technology to create visual impact.

Whether you're looking to pursue a creative career or build powerful communication tools, graphic design is a field that offers limitless potential.

What is Graphic Design?

Graphic design is the art and practice of creating visual content to communicate ideas and information. It uses elements like typography, imagery, color, and layout to deliver messages that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Graphic designers work across various mediums including print, digital platforms, social media, mobile apps, video, and more.

At its core, graphic design is about solving problems and telling stories visually. Whether it’s designing a poster to promote a product or developing a brand identity, designers use their skills to capture attention, evoke emotion, and inspire action.

Importance of Graphic Design in the Modern World

A. Visual Communication

In an era where attention spans are shorter than ever, strong visual communication is critical. Graphic design helps brands communicate their message quickly and effectively.

B. Brand Identity

Graphic designers are responsible for building a company’s visual identity. From logos to color palettes, every element influences how a brand is perceived.

C. Digital Growth

The rise of social media and digital marketing has fueled the demand for graphic designers who can create scroll-stopping content and optimize visuals for multiple platforms.

D. User Experience (UX)

In web and app design, graphic design contributes heavily to user experience by ensuring content is organized, intuitive, and engaging.

Why Study Graphic Design?

Pursuing a career in graphic design opens the door to a wide range of industries—from marketing and media to fashion and gaming. Here are some key reasons to study graphic design:

Creative Expression: Turn your ideas and imagination into impactful visual experiences.

High Demand: Graphic designers are needed in nearly every business sector.

Freelance Opportunities: Flexibility to work as an independent designer or run your own studio.

Global Reach: Design is a universal language, allowing you to work for clients across the world.

Career Variety: Work in branding, UX/UI, motion graphics, publishing, packaging, or advertising.

Graphic Design Course at NIILM University

Graphic design at NIILM University is designed to empower students with both foundational knowledge and advanced technical skills. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your design expertise, this course offers the perfect blend of creativity, software mastery, and industry exposure.

The program focuses on turning students into professional visual communicators ready for the fast-paced digital economy.

Curriculum Highlights

The course curriculum at NIILM University is comprehensive and aligned with industry standards. Here are some key topics covered:

1. Design Principles and Color Theory

Learn the fundamentals of composition, layout, balance, contrast, and how to use color effectively to influence perception.

2. Typography and Branding

Master the art of selecting fonts and creating brand identities that are both consistent and unique.

3. Adobe Creative Suite

Hands-on training in essential design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and After Effects.

4. User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design

Understand the design strategies behind engaging websites, mobile apps, and digital interfaces.

5. Motion Graphics and Animation

Add movement and interactivity to designs with animation tools and storytelling techniques.

6. Portfolio Development

Build a strong portfolio that showcases your design skills, creativity, and real-world project experience.

Facilities and Learning Environment at NIILM University

At NIILM University, graphic design students enjoy access to state-of-the-art labs, digital design studios, and collaborative workspaces. The learning environment is modern, inclusive, and innovation-driven.

High-performance Mac and PC labs

Licensed Adobe software

Guest lectures from design professionals

Live projects and internships

Participation in design competitions and exhibitions

The university emphasizes experiential learning and nurtures the creative potential of every student.

Career Opportunities in Graphic Design

A qualification in graphic design opens diverse and rewarding career paths. Graduates can explore roles such as:

Graphic Designer – Work in branding, advertising, packaging, or publishing.

UI/UX Designer – Design intuitive digital interfaces for apps and websites.

Motion Graphics Designer – Create animated visuals for video, gaming, or advertising.

Art Director – Lead creative teams in agencies or media houses.

Freelance Designer – Offer services to clients globally on a project basis.

Visual Content Creator – Design engaging content for social media and digital marketing.

The flexibility of this field allows professionals to work in startups, agencies, corporates, or independently as entrepreneurs.

Skills You’ll Develop

A graphic design course equips you with a rich blend of creative and technical skills:

Visual storytelling

Critical thinking

Software proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.)

Time and project management

Attention to detail

Client communication and presentation

These skills not only prepare you for creative jobs but also build a mindset for innovation and problem-solving.

Who Should Join This Course?

The graphic design course at NIILM University is ideal for:

Creative thinkers and visual storytellers

Students interested in art, media, or marketing

Professionals looking to upskill or transition into design

Freelancers and content creators

Entrepreneurs needing in-house design capabilities

No prior experience is needed—just a passion for design and a willingness to learn.

Why Choose NIILM University?

NIILM University stands out among Indian institutions for its commitment to creative excellence and industry integration. Here’s why it’s the right choice for aspiring designers:

UGC-recognized and industry-aligned curriculum

Practical, project-based learning

Experienced faculty with design and media backgrounds

Internship and placement support

Collaborative and inclusive campus culture

Whether you aim to join a top design firm or start your own venture, NIILM helps you build the right foundation.

Final Thoughts

The field of graphic design is more than just making things look good—it’s about solving problems, telling stories, and influencing how people think and feel. With design becoming central to digital communication and branding, skilled designers are in high demand.

By enrolling in the graphic design course at NIILM University, you’re taking the first step toward a creative, fulfilling, and future-ready career.

Let your ideas shape the world—visually.

[mudrakseo-blog]

Graphic Design Services in Faridabad

Graphic Design Company in Faridabad

Elevating Your Brand with Mudrak Advertising Services

In today's visually driven world, the importance of compelling graphic design cannot be overstated. Whether you are a startup looking to establish a brand identity or an established company seeking to refresh your visual presence, the right graphic design can make all the difference. Mudrak Advertising Services, a leading graphic design company in Faridabad, offers a comprehensive suite of graphic design services tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across industries.

Graphic Design Services with Mudrak Advertising Services

At Mudrak Advertising Services, we understand that every business has its unique voice, and we strive to reflect that in our designs. Our graphic design services are not just about creating attractive visuals; they are about crafting stories that resonate with your audience. From logos to brochures, business cards to banners, our team of skilled designers works closely with you to ensure that every piece of design aligns with your brand's identity and communicates your message effectively.

Types of Graphic Design Services

Logo Design

The logo is the face of your brand. We create logos that are not only visually appealing but also represent the essence of your business.

Brand Identity Design

Beyond just a logo, we help you establish a complete brand identity, including color schemes, typography, and other design elements that create a cohesive visual language for your brand.

Print Design

Whether it’s brochures, flyers, business cards, or posters, our print design services ensure that your printed materials are professional, impactful, and of the highest quality.

Packaging Design

Your product’s packaging is the first thing customers see. We design packaging that not only catches the eye but also communicates the value of the product inside.

Web and Digital Design

From website layouts to social media graphics and digital ads, we create designs that are optimized for the digital space, ensuring a seamless user experience across all platforms.

Infographics

We transform complex data and information into visually engaging infographics that are easy to understand and shareable.

Marketing Collateral

We design a range of marketing materials, including banners, billboards, and promotional items, to help you effectively market your brand.

Why Choose a Company for Graphic Design Services?

Choosing a professional graphic design company like Mudrak Advertising Services ensures that your visual assets are not only aesthetically pleasing but also strategically aligned with your business goals. Here are a few reasons why partnering with a graphic design company is beneficial:

Expertise:Professional designers have the skills and experience to create high-quality designs that resonate with your target audience.

Consistency:A graphic design company ensures consistency across all your visual materials, reinforcing your brand identity.

Time Efficiency:Outsourcing your graphic design needs, allows you to focus on your core business activities, while the experts handle the creative work.

Access to Resources:Professional design companies have access to the latest design tools, software, and industry trends, ensuring that your designs are modern and effective.

Types of Work in Graphic Design Services

Graphic design services encompass a wide range of creative work, including:

Concept Development:This involves brainstorming and developing the initial concept that will guide the design process.

Layout Design:Creating the structure and arrangement of visual elements on a page or screen, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition.

Typography:Choosing and arranging fonts in a way that enhances readability and complements the overall design.

Color Theory:Selecting colors that evoke the right emotions and align with the brand’s identity.

Illustration:Custom illustrations that add a unique and artistic touch to your designs.

Photo Editing and Manipulation:Enhancing or altering images to fit the design’s needs.

How This Works

Working with Mudrak Advertising Services is a seamless process. Here’s how it typically works:

Consultation:We begin by understanding your business, brand, and design needs. This helps us tailor our services to your specific requirements.

Conceptualization:Based on our consultation, we develop design concepts that align with your brand identity and goals.

Design Development:Once a concept is approved, we move on to creating the actual design, ensuring that every detail is perfect.

Review and Feedback:We present the design to you for feedback and make any necessary revisions to ensure complete satisfaction.

Final Delivery:After the design is finalized, we deliver the high-quality files in the required formats, ready for use in print or digital media.

Benefits

Tailored Solutions:Our designs are customized to fit your brand’s unique needs and goals.

Professional Quality:We deliver high-quality designs that are polished and professional.

Efficiency:Our streamlined process ensures timely delivery without compromising on quality.

Why Choose Mudrak Advertising Services?

Choosing Mudrak Advertising Services means choosing a partner who is as invested in your success as you are. Here’s why we stand out:

Experienced Team:Our designers have years of experience and a deep understanding of design principles and trends.

Customer-Centric Approach:We prioritize your needs and ensure that you are involved in every step of the design process.

Comprehensive Services:From concept to delivery, we handle all aspects of graphic design, providing you with a hassle-free experience.

Innovative Solutions:We stay ahead of the curve, offering innovative design solutions that set you apart from the competition.

Affordable Pricing:Quality design shouldn’t break the bank. We offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.

That's How Our Design Strategy Works

At the heart of every successful brand lies a meticulously crafted design strategy. At Mudrak Advertising Services, our approach is more than just about making things look good—it's about creating visual experiences that tell your brand's story and resonate with your audience. Here's a glimpse into how our design strategy works, turning ideas into impactful designs.

1. Discover: Understanding Your Vision

Every great design begins with a deep understanding of your brand's vision, values, and goals. We start by engaging in a thorough discovery phase, where we listen to your ideas, analyze your brand’s identity, and explore the competitive landscape. This foundational step ensures that every design decision we make is aligned with your brand’s essence and business objectives.

2. Ideate: Crafting the Concept

Once we have a clear understanding of your brand, we move on to the ideation phase. Here, our creative minds brainstorm and generate ideas that capture the essence of your brand. We explore various design directions, color palettes, typography, and visual elements, creating a mood board that reflects the overall feel we aim to achieve. This is where your brand's visual identity starts to take shape.

3. Design: Bringing Ideas to Life

With a solid concept in place, we move into the design phase. Our skilled designers transform ideas into tangible designs, meticulously crafting each element to ensure harmony and balance. Whether it's a logo, a website layout, or a marketing campaign, every detail is thoughtfully designed to evoke the right emotions and communicate your brand’s message effectively. This is where creativity meets precision, and your vision becomes a visual reality.

4. Refine: Perfecting the Details

Design is an iterative process, and we believe in refining our work until it’s perfect. We present the initial designs to you for feedback and make adjustments based on your input. This collaborative approach ensures that the final design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also aligns with your vision and expectations. It's about fine-tuning the details to create a design that truly represents your brand.

5. Deliver: Finalizing the Masterpiece

Once the design is refined and approved, we prepare the final files for delivery. But our work doesn’t stop there. We provide you with the necessary formats for both digital and print media, ensuring that your brand’s visual assets are versatile and ready for any platform. We also offer guidance on how to use these assets effectively, ensuring consistency across all your marketing channels.

6. Evolve: Adapting to Change

In the ever-evolving world of design, staying static is not an option. We believe in the power of adaptability, and our design strategy is built to evolve with your brand. Whether it’s a rebrand, a new campaign, or a seasonal update, we’re here to ensure that your design remains fresh, relevant, and impactful.

The Result: Designs That Work for You

Our design strategy is more than just a process—it’s a partnership. We work closely with you every step of the way, ensuring that the final design not only meets your expectations but exceeds them. The result is a visual identity that is not only beautiful but also functional, driving your brand forward in the competitive marketplace.