Zettabytes are here. The world is generating so much digital matter that a new unit of measure had to be invented. A Zettabyte is a billion terrabytes, which in turn is a thousand…. OK, put it this way, you’d need 75 billion iPads to store 1.2 zettabytes. To help us navigate through cyberspace, Google are now introducing Instant Search, which produces results before you have finished typing and offers suggestions for what you wanted to look for. You need to registered with Google to use this facility. As it says on their site ‘Feelings of euphoria and weightlessness are normal. Do not be alarmed’. Unless, of course, your business is Search Engine Optimisation.

the plot

I was asked to pitch for some work the other day.  The client and I got on very well and he showed me round his delightful premises.  Masses of visual potential for filming I thought and made copious notes.  What will it cost?  I told him that I would work out a budget and check his existing website.  Later that day I looked at his website.  Bad doesn’t come close to describing it. It was severely undercooked. And even though he got a grant the design still cost him thousands. I wrote a friendly email saying his first priority should be to update his website so that his customers would find him more easily on-line.  Multi-media content could always be added later. I sent a second email with lots of design and usability tips. I sent a third email warmly recommending a couple of excellent local designers.   No replies or returned calls. I think I upset him.  Sadly, I don’t think his is the only under-performing, overpriced website out there.