Tim Berners-Lee: The next Web of open, linked data
I came across this interesting video, discussing the next key evolution of the web (possibly). Twenty years ago, Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web. Here he discusses building a web for open, linked data that could do for numbers what the Web did for words, pictures, video: unlock our data and reframe the way we use it together. Enjoy.
Recent Logo Designs
Here are some logo designs, recently created/refined for my business project; Aylis Ltd.
Ayzine #7 – Reflecting on 2009 and plans for 2010.
Originally published via Ayzine on the 18th Feb 2010
Dear *name*
We’re now well and truly into 2010 and hopefully it’s been a good year for you so far (if not, keep positive, it will change!). We’ve been reflecting on progress since Aylis.com went live with its first site (Nodus Awards) back in Jan 2009. Rather than waffling, here’s what we identified as our top achievements…
Interviewed by APEX
The interview was published at http://www.apex-ethics.com/. Sole publishing rights for this interview are held by APEX and it may not be republished and/or redistributed without my permission.
Interviewed by Award Sites!
The interview was published at http://www.awardsites.com/
My name’s David Conway, I was born in England, November 1980. I am the owner of Aylis Ltd, a web development company and parent of the Nodus Award program. From drawing and painting in junior school, to graduating from University with a BSc Hons in Product Design, creativity has always played a major role in my life. It is my passion.
Ayzine #6 – Nodus Awards is changing (again!)
Originally published via Ayzine on the 20th Dec 2009
Dear *name*
It has been a long time since our previous newsletter. June was the last time we emailed, announcing the re-launch of Nodus Awards. Since that time, we have had chance to thoroughly evaluate the radically different format.
Interviewed by Maximilian Speicher
The interview was published at http://maximilianspeicher.wordpress.com/
Maximilian Speicher: David, first of all, please tell me a little about you.
David Conway: I knew from an early age that I wanted a career in art/design. I studied 3D Design at Art College and went on to gain a BSc (Hons) in Design at Coventry University. I’m currently the Creative Director for a well known web design/development company based in the UK. In my spare time I work on my personal project, Aylis.com which allows me to get the creative juices flowing! Aylis is the parent brand for several websites including NodusAwards.com and WebAwards-Database.net, both of which relate to the ‘Web Awards Community’.
MS: Would you please explain the purpose of a web award in general and of the Nodus Award in particular to the outside reader?
DC: In the late 90’s, the concept of Award Programs was conceived. The idea was that webmasters could submit their site to an independent 3rd party who would conduct an evaluation. The applicant would in turn receive a greater understanding of their current capability along with advice on how to improve. The concept caught on and having your own award program became very popular, as did displaying winner trophies on your website. The Award scene reached its peak in the mid 2000s.
The Nodus Award has always stood for creativity. It was started to acknowledge the existence of talented individuals or groups, and to show appreciation by providing them with the publicity they deserve. It’s a difficult program with only 5% of applicants achieving the top accolade (Gold) but those who rise to the top are published in a monthly newsletter which gives good (and free) exposure. I’m currently in the process of completely rebuilding the site and it will re-launch later this year with a new look and a new format.
MS: When judging a website, what do you seek for?
DC: Well firstly, the site should be clear and easy to understand. If it’s frustrating or confusing to use, it has failed. Secondly, I look for creativity, attention to detail and generally something different/unique. The best sites always use creativity to help the user rather than hinder them.
MS: Why should a web designer or developer apply for web awards?
DC: Tricky question. I’m not sure all of them should. Many web designers/developers are more accomplished than the evaluator, certainly from a technical perspective. It depends on which programs you apply for really. Some are run by webmasters who just want you to link to them and have very little to offer. At the same time, others can give you really good advice and help even the most experienced professionals by simply offering a different perspective. At Nodus Awards, there are several web design agencies who use the site as a benchmarking service, submitting client websites to get an outside opinion from a fellow professional.
MS: Please name three web awards dedicated to design, development or publishing on the web you would consider the best.
DC: ‘Best’ depends on your motives. For design inspiration I would recommend TheFWA.com and May1reboot.com. If you’re looking for personal feedback on your site, I would recommend programs such as O.N.Z.C.D.A as they will really take the time to give you detailed and constructive feedback. Oh, and Nodus Awards of course 
MS: Thank you very much for this interview.
DC: You’re most welcome Max.
Categories
- Personal (51)
- Artwork (1)
- Photography (3)
- Random (3)
- Recipes (1)
- VW Golf R32 (MkV) (44)
- Professional (17)
- Ayzine (2)
- Branding (4)
- Business Advice (3)
- Interviews (3)
- Marketing (2)
- Web Technology (3)