Today, I learned the different approaches when wanting to make a video portfolio. The first approach is the content-first approach, which presents all your content on screen, mainly in chronological order. It is the most user-friendly, however, it is less navigatable for viewers. The next approach is the grid approach, which presents content in a birds'-eye view. It is easier to navigate. To use the content first approach, Squarespace has features to organize a video portfolio in such a way. Wix helps those who prefer the grid format best.
Today, I explored all the content about Google Analytics. Google Analytics is a web service that helps web developers, app developers, etc. gather data on their creation to improve their sites. Google Analytics tracks user data to help creators find what demographic of users (either by identity, device type, etc.) visits their site more, who stays the longest, who makes the most in-site/app purchases, and other essential pieces of data. With this data, creators can improve their projects to make them more user-friendly, accessible, and enjoyable for all users. I was wondering if Google Analytics could be used for apps like Etsy where creators each have their own individual store. Even though Etsy is technically the app, and creators don't have much creative control of the overall app, it would be helpful if Google Analytics, or a variant of it, could be used to help Etsy stores get more customers.
I learned a lot about algorithms today! I assumed algorithms were math-focused: solutions, equations, etc. However, the articles underneath the algorithm tab explained that problem-solving is at the very core of algorithms, so simple day-to-day actions like doing laundry or cooking are examples of algorithmic thinking. This is specifically called route-finding. Route finding breaks the problem down into separate questions/situations. With these separate questions, it is easier to find the solutions and connect them together in an efficient way at the end. Obviously, in terms of technology, this route-finding technique would be applied to code, however, I find it interesting how route-finding can also be used in my daily life.
Out of all the options listed in the immediate income section, I would most likely find myself as either a transcriptionist or a music reviewer. I was under the impression, however, that transcriptionists make a substantial amount of money for their jobs. It was interesting to find out that most companies charge 1 dollar for about 400 words/minute of audio. If I were to become a transcriptionist, it would be a very time-consuming job that, as a beginner, I would not be making much profit from. Nonetheless, transcriptionists are very important, as they provide subtitles for videos where, those who are watching, could, unfortunately, have the possibility of being hearing impaired.
I went back to the video editing unit and for all the video editing software under the "Establishing your video editing environment" tab, I would have to say that Final Cut Pro seems the most user-friendly. Its structure and organization resemble iMovie, which many people are familiar with, so I believe that Final Cut Pro would be the best software to begin editing videos. It is also less complex compared to Adobe Premiere. Adobe Premiere has a lot of features and the initial setup for editing videos seems to have the potential to confuse many beginners, like me if I ever decide to pursue this career. It can be very overwhelming at first glance. Final Pro also is a one-time payment plan, versus Adobe Pro which is a monthly plan. For beginners who most likely are not getting frequent work, Final Cut Pro seems like the most financially reasonable choice.
Today, I looked at the customer service unit. I was always interested in customer service. Because it is a remote job, customer service seems like an excellent option for someone like me who would like to have multiple sources of income. First, I need to know if customer service jobs involve emailing, calling, AND texting, or if you can select which form of communication you would use. Personally, I would work the best texting or emailing, simply because I feel that I would be able to personalize my messages and convey my points more clearly. I would have to work for a smaller or at least less technological company that doesn't require me to understand so much, like Apple, which one would succeed at if they understood completely not only Apple products but technology as well.
Today, I went back to the Niche website unit and looked under the tab that discussed how to increase the number of visitors that come. The most interesting thing I learned from this unit was the tactical use of keywords. Similar to the tactical use of hashtags in the digital advertising unit, maximizing and strategically selecting keywords that have the most views or activity increase the number of viewers on your site. Of course, this requires a lot of research in order to figure out what keywords are trending, which I believe I would be good at. I think I would much prefer a job where I have to search and analyze social trends for companies to follow rather than create niche websites for them.
Today, I learned a little more about data analysis. Earlier this summer, I reviewed the business analysis page and I've come to the realization that, although the two jobs share many of the same similarities, they are also different in many ways. The main difference between the two roles is their level of involvement. Data analysis is more in the background; analyzing data, managing and maintaining databases, and finding trends in companies. While business analysts do the same thing, they are more involved with the solution and problem-solving aspects of it. Personally, I do not think Data Analysis is for me since it requires a great amount of skill in subjects like statistics, math, and computer science, which are not strong suits for me.
Today, I learned about app monetization. When reading all the articles associated with this topic, I couldn't help but compare app monetizing to the writing unit, specifically the blogs, or the selling art online unit. All these units share the advice of creating ads to promote products and make money off of. They also all encouraged email lists, sponsorships, or paid partnerships to increase income. I think where the other units and the app monetization topic differs is the use of in-app purchases for apps. I can say from personal experience, that in-app purchases are very tempting and are usually only offered for the most desirable or sought-after products/aspects of the app, so it is in higher demand. I feel like these strategies can be used in almost any entrepreneurial career move one decides to engage in.
I visited the online trading unit and educated myself on REITs trading. I have gained an interest in real estate recently, but figured, since I am still young, I would have to wait until I am older to own buildings and eventually sell or rent them. REITs provide an interesting opportunity to people, like me, who are interested in real estate but who can't or don't want to own property. I personally think investing in REITs rather than direct real estate lowers risks, such as negative trends due to the sometimes unexpected economic environment, such as an increase in mortgage rates that usually decrease the number of homes sold. REITs seem to be a very interesting topic I'll look into.
Today, I learned the importance of contracts. Just like any business, recruiting requires some sort of agreement to protect recruiters and their clients as well. However, the most important thing I learned from this section was the fact that not all legally binding contracts have to be written in legal terms. I assumed since most of these contracts are either written or proofread by lawyers, they would be written in legal terms. However, it makes sense for them to be written in standard English so that all parties can understand. I do wonder if liabilities are written into these contracts, as well as how long it takes to create one considering the fact that both parties have to assemble hypothetical situations and the solutions to those situations before compiling it onto the contract.
In the Digital Goods unit, there is a podcast section. I think in an earlier blog, I spoke about wanting to potentially do a podcast sometime in the future. All the articles from podcast insights were extremely helpful, especially the one that outlined equipment selection, editing suggestions, and tips for promotion. I thought that most people edited their podcasts on iMovie, but it's nice to know that the audio for these podcasts can be edited on Garage Band as well or on a specific app called Alitu. I know that I will probably either end up using Spotify or Apple Music, since they have the highest amount of listeners. I think the trickier part, which isn't really explained in any of the articles is how to get paid for the podcasts and how to create advertisements on other apps to promote the podcast. I am aware that I can promote my podcast by creating a website or becoming a guest on other shows, but I wonder if I can create an Instagram ad, similar to what I learned in the digital advertising unit, to promote the podcast.
Today, I learned about digital advertising. The part of this unit that I found most interesting was the "science" behind hashtags. I was always under the impression that all hashtags were equally valuable. Of course, there were some hashtags that were more popular than others. Still, I thought that meant if I were to post videos/pictures under less popular hashtags, they would be more likely to be seen. I believed that posting under popular hashtags would risk my post being buried under other people's content. However, this unit taught me that it is important to search hashtags and check their popularity to increase views. The specific video in this unit stated that optimal hashtags would have 100,000- 10 million posts, which I will make sure to pay attention to the next time I post on social media.
Today, I learned about database language, more specifically, SQL. Usually, when people think of code, they think of a complicated language that takes hours and weeks, most times years, to perfect. However, SQL reminded me a lot of Google sheets for some reason. The commands are very straightforward (ex, Create Table, insert into, etc.). It is also helpful to learn SQL considering it is a transferable interface language. This language seems more straightforward and more approachable than the coding language in the mobile apps unit. I am actually looking into it and finding more websites like Khan Academy that help practice SQL.
Today, I got introduced to Music production. I was always under the impression that, in order to produce music or beats, you had to own music production equipment that would be commonly seen in a studio. However, the unit showed how music production can easily happen through a computer. Of course, certain software is required and you would still have to purchase some equipment, but it's nice to know that someone could take part in such a lucrative business from their homes. I think the most interesting thing I learned in the unit, however, was the different types of audio files that were described in an article. Similar to the different types of exports for files with text on it, I have gotten into the habit of just exporting audio files in any way, but it was interesting to know that the preferred audio file for most music production software is in the MIDI format.
I took a look today at the product manager unit and I quickly came to the conclusion that it seems like a very detailed-oriented, time-consuming job. However, I feel like I would be good at it. Product management requires organization skills, time management skills, innovation, good communication, and a wide array of responsibilities. I think the aspect of the job that interests me the most is the research and communication aspect of the job. Communication involves not only coordinating with different teams but being able to vocalize plans in a way that is easily digestible. I think the only part of the job that would be a little difficult would be actually coming up with the product, service, ad/marketing strategy, etc. without a concept seeming repetitive or seen in other companies before. After the fact, I know I would be capable of handling everything else that is required from product management, except creating the product itself as I said before. However, with the assignment under this unit, I will try to create a service for Techie Youth that will clearly determine if this is a fear of mine or if I am capable of doing it.
Today, I accomplished a number of things. First, I revisited the Improving Quality of Life unit. This year, after having worked many different freelance jobs mostly at school, I realized how bad I was at saving money. I went back to this unit to be reminded of its importance and to learn different skills in budgeting. The cost of living estimator helped a lot and I actually plan to use it during this school year again; hopefully, I can see a difference in the amount of money I end up saving. Next, I revisited some of the assignments I turned in that needed to be revised. This led me to look back at the social themes unit. It is very important to understand and fully be able to utilize social media these days. Because most marketing and business don't online and through social media, being able to promote and sell through online media apps, such as Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter are essential to living and financially thriving in this generation.
Today, I focused on video editing. This school year, I had an assignment where I was tasked to interview a family member and edit the video and audio. I chose iMovie as my video software and thought I did a pretty good job. This unit, however, not only introduced me to different platforms but also different techniques to use while editing. Although I could not get through each slideshow, the ones I visited introduced interesting topics I had never learned about such as choosing color combinations for videos (RGB and HEX), J+ L cuts, and using Adobe Premiere. I don't think I would try out video editing as a career, mainly because of how meticulous you are required to be and because of the time it definitely takes to finish only one project, but I do believe that it is important to have some sort of video editing skills for personal or academic projects like mine.
Today, I learned how to develop different apps for iOS and Android devices. I didn't find interest in creating my own app, mainly because I don't have any ideas for anything that would be particularly new or innovative. I think the material under those titles just emphasized learning code's importance. While code can be used to make our own apps, which I don't necessarily see myself doing, code can also help create websites. I hope in the future, I can use code to create my own website for my potential podcast show.
Today, one of the interesting topics I refreshed myself on was setting up virtual meetings in the Virtual Assistant module. Although online school had me slightly familiar with Zoom and Webex, another virtual meeting site not shown in the unit, I was introduced to other apps, such as BlueJeans. I think it is very important to be informed and educated on how to use video calling websites for virtual meetings in the unfortunate event of another situation that requires students to attend classes online. This is also helpful for many jobs, such as online tutors, for there are many options to choose from according to what your student is comfortable with using. I wonder if there is a slight advantage to being an in-person assistant rather than a virtual one? Do virtual assistants seem more detached from the knowledge regarding their duties? Do they feel more detached from their boss as well? How do they manage to continue including themselves in the circle of the company if they only meet with their boss/employees a few times a week/month? I would love to ask a virtual assistant about their experience in their field.
In the Niche Informational Websites elective, there is a lot of content to digest. From the topic regarding selecting thems for a website, to writing emails and tracking expenses, I learned many new things today. The most memorable topic, however, was how to utilize google sheets to track expenses. In the future, when I have a consistent income, I would like to be able to remain organized and cautious with my spending, and I believe having a spreadsheet, or at least some form of organization, is an excellent way to reach my financial goals. Personally, I could not see myself becoming a website creator, especially since I have no ideas for content, but I could see myself becoming a freelance writer for a niche website. I wonder if there are also freelance jobs for writing email newsletters for said websites.
At Techie Youth today, I learned about Quality Assurance, which is an occupation where people test or fix a company's software. There are different ways that people who work in quality assurance test out software and hardware, as well as different types of testing. The different types of testing include intro testing, website/content testing, performance testing, and functional testing. Most of these testings are separated into either white box or black box testing, which are labels QAs use to guide their testing. Many also use the STLC as a means of improving their work. At the end of the day, without QAs, many businesses and companies would have software/hardware/websites/etc. that would not work or would not be as efficient; QAs are very essential to the function of many companies.
Today, I explored the web design unit. At its core, web design is designing websites for potential clients, whether they be yoga instructors, photographers, tutors, etc. I know this comparison isn't sufficient, but having created my fair share of different google presentations and websites on google sites, I believe I have a general understanding of what is expected of me. My main concern surrounds figuring out what is best regarding the image my client would have in mind rather than I, but that is what communication is for. This unit also talked about how to obtain new clients and email them, which can be used for many other career paths. Ultimately, creativity is a must-need for web design, as well as the ability to have perspective; to be able to view the website as a customer rather than its creator while making it.
Today, after browsing around different units, I spent most of my time in the business analyst unit of the Analyst elective. I was under the impression that business analyst analyzed and studied the patterns of their company compared to other in order to boost their success. However, after viewing all the material in this unit, I know that the job requires much more. Business analyst take on various amount of tasks to tacking issues in their company and offer guidance that will help the company's performance. They are essentially the backbone of many companies; a vitamin that helps strengthen the workplace. They also require a lot of personality skills, such as problem solving, communication, etc.
This year, I had a very interesting conversation with my math teacher about stocks and investments. he, similar to my mom earlier in the year, trumped the myths that stocks are only reserved for adults and encouraged us to get involved while we were young. I never knew where to start or the different pathways to investments/earning money other than stocks. I've heard about Bitcoin many times prior to today, but the elective really educated me on what it is. Today at Techie Youth, I learned about cryptocurrency. Even though almost everything I learned today was new, the most important piece of information I obtained was cryptocurrency security and how to avoid "shitcoins". Whenever I decide to begin my journey with cryptocurrency and Bitcoin, I now know to utilize a blockchain to reduce the number of security breaches and protect my information. It is also very reassuring to know that Bitcoin wallets don't share my name or contact info, another extra step to secure my information.
Today I spent most of my time in the Selling Computer-Designed Objects and Technological Crafts elective. Although I learned how to use different design sfotwares like Adobe Illustrator, InkScape and LibreCad, and was able to brush up on my Adobe Photoshop skills, the most interesting thing I learned at Techie Youth today was the economic aspect of selling these products, particularly how to price items. While I used to believe that half priced items caught the attention from most customers, I now know that the lower price may lead potential consumers to believe that the items are scams. Lower prices also lower the amount of money made due to the other additional fees involved ( shipping, tooling/consumable costs/ the amount it takes to make the items, etc.)
Today at Techie Youth, I learned about recruiting. I was educated on the different forms of recruiting, the ATS software that assists in recruiting, and the processes that take place in recruitment. The most interesting thing I learned in this unit today was how to write a job description. Instead of writing a straightforward description of the job like I thought was the case, I learned that the most compelling job descriptions begin with questions.