1 in 10 people understand binary

From time to time this joke still makes me chuckle - "only 1 in ten people understand binary, the other 50% don't".

A software renaissance

There seems to be a renaissance in Software Development these days and the credit (in large part I think) has to go to Apply and their iPhone. The beauty of the iPhone is the interface and the way in which is has forced software developers like us to think more about the way in which a user uses their product.

Our background is in automated retail banking software so we know more than most about simple to use interfaces - but hats of to the iPhone guys - a work of genius.

Software development an early indicator of returning economic activity

It's been a tough couple of years for most businesses - I dont think many have escaped the downturn in the economy. Even though we've been pretty busy throughout its been a time of continual concentration and attention to every aspect of the software development business that we are growing.

Now as the economy begins to think about turning itself around we're seeing increased enquiries and as a result we've been recruiting. Good to see the team expand.

Hopefully the demands on us are because business generally is on the up - doing web development and sofware systems I guess we would tend to see the first since of a return of confidence. Fingers crosssed.

Techcrunch heads to Edinburgh

Techcrunch is coming to Edinburgh in May - should be good - more info here .

Techcrunch are a good source of info, comment and gossip and it will be interesting to see who heads along. The entrepreneurial community in Scotland is starting to build into it's own wee eco-system so the arrival of techcrunch can only help.

As we bob about promoting our software development services it's clear that there are a lot more techy events popping up - interesting trend - hopefully one that continues. Maybe see you at techcrunch.

DRM - protecting us all

Digital Rights Management - or put more bluntly the stuff that stops you copying files illegally - is a great thing and a bad thing all in one.

One of my recent frustrations was trying to share files across two accounts on one PC. Spent ages fighting with iTunes so that whoever was logged in could share the same music that we have previously bought for the family. Gave up in the end and decided to opt for one account.

If there is a simple solution - let us know.

We know DRM is a big issue - we've built software systems that help some of our clients protect their material - but ultimately you cant stop photocopying or CD copying.