Strange cloud

The one basic rule to work with data in excel

If you decide to work with Excel there are several things you have to think of when you start. Believe it or not,but you have to keep in mind only one rule: Keep the layers separated!

Layer 1: data
Layer 2: operation (calculations)
Layer 3: representation (results)

I also tend to mix up this logical layers but by separating the data, the operational view and the representational view you will have some things easier lateron, e.g.: As your data layer doesn't have an impact on your representation layer, the adding of data columns does not alter the dashboard or representational view.

So the layering and separation will help you in maintaining your excel charts, it will make you  more flexible and the documentation a lot more easier.

But I can tell you right away: You will have to learn some things fast. Amongst these things are matrix formulas, the indirect functions and various lookups. Is there anything you want to add?

Blogging with Android

At some point you want to try blogging from your Android phone. I tried out two apps on my HTC Desire. Of course there are many more. But I was also looking for a solution for blogspot.

Bloggerdroid
Bloggerdroid is a simple app, which is perfectly suited for taking a picture and write some lines.

No formatting, no help with links and you have to have a Google account. Works fine.



Blogaway
Is a sophisticated app, which supports also drafting and commenting. I really like this app, as you can store drafts on your phone.






You can find both on the Android market. Tell me what you think.

Qwitter Therapy

You can receive messages for all kind in Twitter. But you never know if someone unfollowed you. Well, the people at http://useqwitter.com/ started these and they are good. They even offer therapy :-)
I received the first email today. It did not make me sad, it was one of these advertising twitters with no input at all. So remember: Even quiting can have a positive aspect (and I am not talking about smoking).

What to read this summer...

So you managed to read all the books from your reading list? That's good. But before you hit the road to the next library, bookstore or just visit your favorite online bookdealer: What will you read next?
I hate this question and usually I end up visiting the store with a hunger for printed letters. You know the saying: Never shop hungry.
These are the times to remember links like http://www.yournextread.com/ (which also has a german flavor - to my delight) and http://bookseer.com/. But these are not the only ones: http://www.booklamp.org/, http://www.whichbook.net/ also come to my mind.

What do you use?