Origins
The origins story
General (background) info
I created this site because I wanted to utilize my awesome MediaTemple hosting and WordPress (one of the “big three”). I am currently utilizing (services I consider to be) the three major players in simplified online publishing — the other two: Squarespace and TypePad.
For many reasons, it’s been difficult for me to choose a clear “superior” service… I’m beginning to feel that there isn’t one — each has strengths and weaknesses. Though in terms of basic fundamentals all three are similar, each differs in operation and philosophy.
I see it as similar to the differences between Basecamp (37signals) and Staction (Paste). [Please let me know if you decide to use Staction! I have suggestions and advice on the service — I personally adore it and an executive team I'm part of also likes it.] Both web apps are solid, user-friendly and sleek — both tackle project management — but the two differ in methodology. Basecamp is more GTD, focussing on task management and organization. Staction’s focus is on people, the team members; instead of utilizing deep, complex project element management (with separate tags and multiple project views — per project), Staction uses a single, simple stream, listing what “to do” for all projects in any order and all open communication chronologically. I can’t honestly say that one service is better — each seems suited to different types of projects and teams, but it’s truly a matter of personal preference. I’m sure that either would work well.
Reasoning and complication; a paradox
Ironically, I started this project with the intent to limit the number of blogs I have to maintain. I wanted no more than two — which became three — when I realized that there would be something missing. I need to stick with what works for me, but my work helps to perpetuate my need to stay current with technology in addition to trends. I must understand the popular, but more importantly, I need firsthand familiarity with whatever will work well for my clients… so I end up triyng a lot of stuff.
With this pursuit and study, I’ve come across a lot of awesome stuff, worthy of the designation Bradtastic Approved. I should be able to rid myself of all other blogs, sites and domains, insofar as four blogs should suffice… but because I see four as bad luck (a death omen), I’m going with five. I don’t think I need to worry about Blogger for now.
Most of what I do, however, doesn’t directly involve the web.
Existence
Bradtastica represents some of what I create, use and do — elements of my identity. It’s work in progress, just like life. However, this facet cannot represent my totality; there aren’t enough hours in a day to achieve that, I have other websites as well, and holistically, people cannot be truly known solely through words and images. That said, I’ll do my best to create an accurate likeness, and perhaps we’ll meet in person someday soon.
This site represents a middle-ground, a balance between my work life and social life, my professional endeavors and personal experiences. Here, I’ll share the best of both sides… serious, and not so serious — or perhaps more serious… and more amazing.
If you have specific questions
Please visit formspring.me/bradtastic and ask whatever you’d like. Questions are moderated; please don’t ask me anything that can be answered by searching online, specifically, please don’t ask general (off-topic; “irrelevant”) questions — something unrelated to me, my sites and services. Not there, anyway… I don’t want to set a precedent — sites such as answers exist for that stuff.
