Dragon NaturallySpeaking Included in New Learning Access Suite to Aid Students with Learning Difficulties
by Nuance
Nuance joins forces with Claro Software and Microlink to deliver education software designed to enrich the learning process for pupils of all abilities
London, UK, 30 October, 2008 - Nuance Communications, a leading provider of speech solutions, has today announced that Dragon® NaturallySpeaking®, the world's best-selling desktop speech recognition software, features in the Learning Access Suite, a collection of powerful learning tools designed to make reading, writing and learning much easier. Developed in conjunction with major assistive solution providers Claro Software and Microlink PC, the Learning Access Suite is available immediately for as little as £1.10 per pupil.
The Learning Access Suite enables learners to see the relationship between the spoken and written word, as it offers both speech recognition and a facility to read back text. In addition to offering Dragon NaturallySpeaking, The Learning Access Suite also includes: the ClaroRead literacy support tool, (including text to speech features), ScreenRuler, Lightening Magnifier and screen reader. It also feautres ClaroView screen colour overlay tool, MindFull Concept Mapper, Colour Explorer and ClaroLingo language assistant.
The comprehensive set of features in the Learning Access Suite will enable schools to meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and other government led education initiatives With Dragon NaturallySpeaking, people can write documents and emails, search the Web, and control their PC entirely by voice. This makes it far easier for pupils with learning difficulties or upper body mobility issues to take full advantage of a PC as a learning and communications tool. Dragon can deliver accuracy up to 99 percent while never making a spelling mistake.
Mark Green, Director of Education, Nuance EMEA, said: "The Learning Access Suite has the potential to transform the learning experience for students as they explore and communicate with IT throughout their school lives. As millions of users have already discovered, Dragon is a multifaceted product and in this application it will open the door to a richer, more inclusive learning experience"
Students, who struggle with using a keyboard and mouse or with a cognitive disability, such as dyslexia, can use this technology to help them reach their full potential. The Suite also provides new learning opportunities for students who are learning English as an additional language. At any one time, there are 150,000 overseas students studying at UK universities as well as many younger learners who are recent arrivals in the UK.
The Learning Access Suite can be easily installed on a school network and, to encourage pupils to use it outside of school for homework and extended learning, there is a special programme for home use. Once a school has taken out a subscription, parents are then entitled to buy Dragon and other tools at a discounted price.
Dragon NaturallySpeaking software from Nuance is used by millions of people - in the office, at home, at school, on the road, even in hospitals and GP practices to get more done faster by voice. Dragon delivers what matters most in speech recognition - superior levels of accuracy, seamless integration with the most popular PC applications, and unrivalled ease of use.
For more information on the Learning Access Suite please visit http://www.nuance.co.uk/learning-access-suite
วันจันทร์ที่ 30 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2552
วันพุธที่ 25 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2552
Perils of Do It Yourself House Plans
Perils of Do It Yourself House Plans
by Mary Summers
In today's world of knowledge share, information on anything is easily available. Many do-it-yourself architectural design tutorials are out there, promising to guide you in building your customized house plan. Like everybody, you must be having a long cherished dream of having a home that best suits your taste and attitude. However, they don't tell you the perils and complexities involved with custom house plans.
Despite the costs involved, an experienced and competent architecture firm would be the best investment in getting you the best house plan design. The architecture company understands the nuances of house design and will employ CAD services or 3D Modeling services to achieve your dream home. Architectural design is something that only architecture firms should actually do.
An architectural company will do the essential architectural drawings and will also give you architectural drafting services. The process can involve CAD drafting as well as 3D BIM drafting. A builder can thereafter take the design blueprint and actually construct your house based upon it.
A professional architecture firm can employ different software platforms to give you the accurate architectural house plan. Also, you can be doubly sure that the house plans will get approved by the local building regulatory body. The architectural company will deal with compliance to building compliance codes. You won't have to deal with fire and safety codes. Wouldn't you want to have a home that is safe, along with being aesthetically beautiful? You can just sit back and relax while availing the best architectural services possible.
The best part about hiring the services of an architecture firm is that they can show you how your building would look like, before any construction activity begins on the site. Yes, this architectural service is called architectural rendering. Even better is that by employing 3D rendering services, you can see your home virtually standing erect. You may even like to take an architectural walkthrough. Isn't it great to take a sneak peek of your drawing room or the bathroom, complete with the interior colors, fittings and accessories? All this is possible through 3D rendering.
Now you might want to consider if a resident architect would be better than an architecture firm. The fact is that resident architects certainly cost you more than a typical architectural firm. But, instead of worrying about finances, why not ship off the burden overseas. Yes, you are right. Outsource the job. Today, numerous countries provide architectural outsourcing services. However, from what is established in the global market, Indian architectural firms provide the best value for your returns.
Therefore, forget your local architectural services and start considering any Indian architectural outsourcing services provider. You will not only be able to make good savings but can possibly have it done within a shorter span, that too of better quality. However, do some internet research and get sure of the credentials of the architecture company that you would hire. Now, get going and get yourself the home of your dreams.
About the Author
BluEnt's Content Department edits and authors towards Bluent.net for distinct articles/journals. For any Architectural Design, Architecture Drawing, Cad Drafting Services related issues and concerns please feel free to visit the website http://architecture.bluent.net/ for more information. Or write me at catchus@bluent.com
by Mary Summers
In today's world of knowledge share, information on anything is easily available. Many do-it-yourself architectural design tutorials are out there, promising to guide you in building your customized house plan. Like everybody, you must be having a long cherished dream of having a home that best suits your taste and attitude. However, they don't tell you the perils and complexities involved with custom house plans.
Despite the costs involved, an experienced and competent architecture firm would be the best investment in getting you the best house plan design. The architecture company understands the nuances of house design and will employ CAD services or 3D Modeling services to achieve your dream home. Architectural design is something that only architecture firms should actually do.
An architectural company will do the essential architectural drawings and will also give you architectural drafting services. The process can involve CAD drafting as well as 3D BIM drafting. A builder can thereafter take the design blueprint and actually construct your house based upon it.
A professional architecture firm can employ different software platforms to give you the accurate architectural house plan. Also, you can be doubly sure that the house plans will get approved by the local building regulatory body. The architectural company will deal with compliance to building compliance codes. You won't have to deal with fire and safety codes. Wouldn't you want to have a home that is safe, along with being aesthetically beautiful? You can just sit back and relax while availing the best architectural services possible.
The best part about hiring the services of an architecture firm is that they can show you how your building would look like, before any construction activity begins on the site. Yes, this architectural service is called architectural rendering. Even better is that by employing 3D rendering services, you can see your home virtually standing erect. You may even like to take an architectural walkthrough. Isn't it great to take a sneak peek of your drawing room or the bathroom, complete with the interior colors, fittings and accessories? All this is possible through 3D rendering.
Now you might want to consider if a resident architect would be better than an architecture firm. The fact is that resident architects certainly cost you more than a typical architectural firm. But, instead of worrying about finances, why not ship off the burden overseas. Yes, you are right. Outsource the job. Today, numerous countries provide architectural outsourcing services. However, from what is established in the global market, Indian architectural firms provide the best value for your returns.
Therefore, forget your local architectural services and start considering any Indian architectural outsourcing services provider. You will not only be able to make good savings but can possibly have it done within a shorter span, that too of better quality. However, do some internet research and get sure of the credentials of the architecture company that you would hire. Now, get going and get yourself the home of your dreams.
About the Author
BluEnt's Content Department edits and authors towards Bluent.net for distinct articles/journals. For any Architectural Design, Architecture Drawing, Cad Drafting Services related issues and concerns please feel free to visit the website http://architecture.bluent.net/ for more information. Or write me at catchus@bluent.com
What Are Recommended Internet Security Suite Software
What Are Recommended Internet Security Suite Software
by Mike Selvon
Making sure that you have installed the best internet security suite that is available today is one of the unwritten, and very important, rules that every PC user should follow. Just about everyone has heard the chilling stories about how computer viruses have caused havoc for a person's computer, often causing them to lose valuable data. Even worse are the stories of the internet threats to computer security that have led to someone having their identity stolen.
As technology advances at a rapid pace to bring the market greater functionality and usability, there are more and more people who are constantly trying to take advantage of technology to infect and intrude on the personal computers of individuals and companies alike. Because of this ongoing battle between the advances in technology and the bad guys trying to make the most of technology for their benefit, there is a constant need for internet security protection software.
An internet security suite of software is able to provide this precise kind of protection through a set of programs that are designed to work together to foil the numerous internet security threats that are constantly cropping up. The most effective types of such computer internet security programs are able to keep abreast of all the current threats, such as spyware, adware, and viruses by automatically downloading updates and patches on a weekly or daily basis.
Making sure that any security software is properly updating should be high on the list of anyone who wants to make the most of their internet security protection. This means that even though the security suite may be programmed to automatically download and install updates, the computer user should still manually check to be sure these updates have occurred.
This double check should be done on a regular basis, weekly at least and preferably each day. While software programs can help to protect your computer, it is ultimately the responsibility of the user to make sure the software is running properly.
When choosing the best antivirus and security software to protect your computer system, and ultimately to protect yourself and your family, you should consider several factors. While many of the internet safety software products claim that they have a complete package to protect your system against internet threats, you still need to check to be sure that some specific components are included in the package you choose.
There are many programs to choose from, such as AVG Internet Security, McAfee Internet Security, Panda Internet Security, PC Cillin Internet Security, Norton Internet Security, Kaspersky Internet Security, Zonealarm Internet Security and Microsoft Internet Security, to name a few.
First, and foremost, the software security suite you choose must have the capacity to scan for viruses, to block viruses with an anti-virus protection routine, and be able to execute removal of any viruses that have invaded your system. Viruses can range from simple programs that are designed to annoy all the way to programs that can completely wipe out a hard drive, causing the user to lose everything on the drive.
A good internet security suite should also provide effective protection against spyware and adware. In addition, it should offer protection against spam, should have a robust firewall, and provide an array of parental control options.
Eventually, computer users running internet security software will run into questions or problems with their software and because of this you should be sure to purchase software from a company that has a good reputation for quality customer service and one that gives their customers the option of receiving support via phone, live chat and email.
About the Author
Mike Selvon has some informative articles for the creative mind. Find out more about internet security suite at his resourceful site. We appreciate your feedback at our internet safety rules blog.
by Mike Selvon
Making sure that you have installed the best internet security suite that is available today is one of the unwritten, and very important, rules that every PC user should follow. Just about everyone has heard the chilling stories about how computer viruses have caused havoc for a person's computer, often causing them to lose valuable data. Even worse are the stories of the internet threats to computer security that have led to someone having their identity stolen.
As technology advances at a rapid pace to bring the market greater functionality and usability, there are more and more people who are constantly trying to take advantage of technology to infect and intrude on the personal computers of individuals and companies alike. Because of this ongoing battle between the advances in technology and the bad guys trying to make the most of technology for their benefit, there is a constant need for internet security protection software.
An internet security suite of software is able to provide this precise kind of protection through a set of programs that are designed to work together to foil the numerous internet security threats that are constantly cropping up. The most effective types of such computer internet security programs are able to keep abreast of all the current threats, such as spyware, adware, and viruses by automatically downloading updates and patches on a weekly or daily basis.
Making sure that any security software is properly updating should be high on the list of anyone who wants to make the most of their internet security protection. This means that even though the security suite may be programmed to automatically download and install updates, the computer user should still manually check to be sure these updates have occurred.
This double check should be done on a regular basis, weekly at least and preferably each day. While software programs can help to protect your computer, it is ultimately the responsibility of the user to make sure the software is running properly.
When choosing the best antivirus and security software to protect your computer system, and ultimately to protect yourself and your family, you should consider several factors. While many of the internet safety software products claim that they have a complete package to protect your system against internet threats, you still need to check to be sure that some specific components are included in the package you choose.
There are many programs to choose from, such as AVG Internet Security, McAfee Internet Security, Panda Internet Security, PC Cillin Internet Security, Norton Internet Security, Kaspersky Internet Security, Zonealarm Internet Security and Microsoft Internet Security, to name a few.
First, and foremost, the software security suite you choose must have the capacity to scan for viruses, to block viruses with an anti-virus protection routine, and be able to execute removal of any viruses that have invaded your system. Viruses can range from simple programs that are designed to annoy all the way to programs that can completely wipe out a hard drive, causing the user to lose everything on the drive.
A good internet security suite should also provide effective protection against spyware and adware. In addition, it should offer protection against spam, should have a robust firewall, and provide an array of parental control options.
Eventually, computer users running internet security software will run into questions or problems with their software and because of this you should be sure to purchase software from a company that has a good reputation for quality customer service and one that gives their customers the option of receiving support via phone, live chat and email.
About the Author
Mike Selvon has some informative articles for the creative mind. Find out more about internet security suite at his resourceful site. We appreciate your feedback at our internet safety rules blog.
วันศุกร์ที่ 20 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2552
Which Is Best: Rocket Spanish V/s Rosetta Spanish
Which Is Best: Rocket Spanish V/s Rosetta Spanish
by tinny tong
When one decides to learn Spanish, there are many ways to do so. There are many self study courses that will teach you how to learn Spanish, Some are good and some are not so good. These courses give you the freedom to study what you want when you want. It sounds great that you have no evening classes to disturb you between the work and a busy social life, but the only problem with too much freedom is lack of focus.
The course which you will choose can help you to progress and keep you coming back for more. The two popular self study courses are:
1.Rocket Spanish and
2.Rosetta Stone.
Rocket Spanish:The audio follows the narrator, an English speaker and Spanish speaker. The English speaker introduces the lesson and goes over concepts of the lesson. The Spanish speaker speaks the Spanish parts. You are encouraged to say the words or sentences after him. Each lesson ends with the narrator asking you questions. You are given time to say them and then the Spanish speaker gives the answer.
The Rosetta Stone course: In lesson will consist of a series of questions. Each question would consist of 4 images/photographs and a button that can be pressed to hear audio. The audio would be either naming the image or describing what was occurring in the image. At the end of the lesson you would be given a mark on how many questions you got right. If you got all the questions right you could advance onto a Harder level.
Rocket Spanish: There is also an e Book that has a series of lessons on the Spanish language. There are tests at the end of each lesson in the e Book.
The interactive "Mega Audio" and "Mega Vocab" games made the material easy to absorb and much more natural than reading a textbook or listening to an audio program. It also has two games that are used to improve your vocabulary and audio recognition.
The Rosetta Stone course:The program incorporates audio, text, and visual aids to help you learn the language, however there is no grammar book present. This can make it a little challenging to catch
on to certain grammatical points. Overall, Rosetta Stone was another solid program that taught applicable material in an interactive manner.
Rosetta Stone is very popular, and it's a good program, but if you
don't want to spend quite that much, and want a program that's a little more traditional, then we recommend Rocket Languages. It is a great way to help learn a language on your own or as an aid to a school class.
Choosing the right program for you will depend on many factors. Both programs are well known for teaching the language and helping users to get Spanish and the concepts of the language so regardless of which one you choose, you will enjoy the excitement of learning a new language for day to day use. So, why dont you start with learn foreign languages.
About the Author
Learn Spanish with rocket Spanish review
by tinny tong
When one decides to learn Spanish, there are many ways to do so. There are many self study courses that will teach you how to learn Spanish, Some are good and some are not so good. These courses give you the freedom to study what you want when you want. It sounds great that you have no evening classes to disturb you between the work and a busy social life, but the only problem with too much freedom is lack of focus.
The course which you will choose can help you to progress and keep you coming back for more. The two popular self study courses are:
1.Rocket Spanish and
2.Rosetta Stone.
Rocket Spanish:The audio follows the narrator, an English speaker and Spanish speaker. The English speaker introduces the lesson and goes over concepts of the lesson. The Spanish speaker speaks the Spanish parts. You are encouraged to say the words or sentences after him. Each lesson ends with the narrator asking you questions. You are given time to say them and then the Spanish speaker gives the answer.
The Rosetta Stone course: In lesson will consist of a series of questions. Each question would consist of 4 images/photographs and a button that can be pressed to hear audio. The audio would be either naming the image or describing what was occurring in the image. At the end of the lesson you would be given a mark on how many questions you got right. If you got all the questions right you could advance onto a Harder level.
Rocket Spanish: There is also an e Book that has a series of lessons on the Spanish language. There are tests at the end of each lesson in the e Book.
The interactive "Mega Audio" and "Mega Vocab" games made the material easy to absorb and much more natural than reading a textbook or listening to an audio program. It also has two games that are used to improve your vocabulary and audio recognition.
The Rosetta Stone course:The program incorporates audio, text, and visual aids to help you learn the language, however there is no grammar book present. This can make it a little challenging to catch
on to certain grammatical points. Overall, Rosetta Stone was another solid program that taught applicable material in an interactive manner.
Rosetta Stone is very popular, and it's a good program, but if you
don't want to spend quite that much, and want a program that's a little more traditional, then we recommend Rocket Languages. It is a great way to help learn a language on your own or as an aid to a school class.
Choosing the right program for you will depend on many factors. Both programs are well known for teaching the language and helping users to get Spanish and the concepts of the language so regardless of which one you choose, you will enjoy the excitement of learning a new language for day to day use. So, why dont you start with learn foreign languages.
About the Author
Learn Spanish with rocket Spanish review
วันจันทร์ที่ 16 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2552
Rosetta Stone: The Many Reasons Why You Need to Buy Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone: The Many Reasons Why You Need to Buy Rosetta Stone
by Alice Campbell
When you hear someone mention of Rosetta Stone, what images conjure in your mind? It is like unlocking one of the greatest mysteries in the world. Sure enough, when you buy Rosetta Stone, you will start learning one of the most widely spoken languages in the world: Spanish. No habla Espanol? This software may just be the solution to your problem. What's more, you can instantly download it from the World Wide Web and use the product anytime and anywhere you are. It is at your own pace.
The Popularity of Rosetta Stone Depends on These Following Amazing Benefits
When you buy Rosetta Stone, you would realize that you will never be hearing or seeing any English word. But that is okay, as it allows you to easily learn the meanings of the word. But to help you out, it uses image association. This means that the Rosetta Stone will show you pictures of people, places, or things--anything--with their corresponding Spanish term. This way, when you happen to see them around, you do not remember their English terms but how they are spoken and read in Spanish. This speeds up your learning.
Rosetta Stone is also very easy to use. When you buy Rosetta Stone, you will see that there are not a lot of menus to choose from. This way, you will not have to spend a lot of time learning their features. Also, they are considered to be intuitive. It can point out wrong from correct answers, regardless of what activity you have chosen. Rosetta Stone also has a very useful Help menu that you can use just in case you get lot along the way. It also possesses a highly comprehensive as well as a clear speech recognition system.
In Rosetta Stone, you just do not learn how to speak the language but also write it. It has its own text editor where you can write or choose Spanish phrases. You can also allow the system to check on your work. If you want to be severely criticized, you increase its strictness. If you want to be encouraged, you just make the program more lenient. It can also determine if you have misspelled a word. For you to be aware, it highlights the questionable word and gives you ample time to make the necessary fixes or corrections.
What Could Probably Change Your Mind to Buy Rosetta Stone (Hopefully Not)
Now what are the things that could probably prevent you to buy Rosetta stone? First, it does not work with any mobile device, so this means that it is not really portable. Moreover, it will cost you more than $250 to get the first-level program. For a lot of people, this could really be expensive. However, it is way cheaper than hiring a Spanish teacher, who will charge you by the hour. You can also save time than attending Spanish classes. This product can be used at your own convenience. There is no pressure at all.
About the Author
Rosetta Stone could just be what you're looking for if you want to learn how to speak Spanish fluently and quickly. You can buy Rosetta Stone online and in other software stores.
by Alice Campbell
When you hear someone mention of Rosetta Stone, what images conjure in your mind? It is like unlocking one of the greatest mysteries in the world. Sure enough, when you buy Rosetta Stone, you will start learning one of the most widely spoken languages in the world: Spanish. No habla Espanol? This software may just be the solution to your problem. What's more, you can instantly download it from the World Wide Web and use the product anytime and anywhere you are. It is at your own pace.
The Popularity of Rosetta Stone Depends on These Following Amazing Benefits
When you buy Rosetta Stone, you would realize that you will never be hearing or seeing any English word. But that is okay, as it allows you to easily learn the meanings of the word. But to help you out, it uses image association. This means that the Rosetta Stone will show you pictures of people, places, or things--anything--with their corresponding Spanish term. This way, when you happen to see them around, you do not remember their English terms but how they are spoken and read in Spanish. This speeds up your learning.
Rosetta Stone is also very easy to use. When you buy Rosetta Stone, you will see that there are not a lot of menus to choose from. This way, you will not have to spend a lot of time learning their features. Also, they are considered to be intuitive. It can point out wrong from correct answers, regardless of what activity you have chosen. Rosetta Stone also has a very useful Help menu that you can use just in case you get lot along the way. It also possesses a highly comprehensive as well as a clear speech recognition system.
In Rosetta Stone, you just do not learn how to speak the language but also write it. It has its own text editor where you can write or choose Spanish phrases. You can also allow the system to check on your work. If you want to be severely criticized, you increase its strictness. If you want to be encouraged, you just make the program more lenient. It can also determine if you have misspelled a word. For you to be aware, it highlights the questionable word and gives you ample time to make the necessary fixes or corrections.
What Could Probably Change Your Mind to Buy Rosetta Stone (Hopefully Not)
Now what are the things that could probably prevent you to buy Rosetta stone? First, it does not work with any mobile device, so this means that it is not really portable. Moreover, it will cost you more than $250 to get the first-level program. For a lot of people, this could really be expensive. However, it is way cheaper than hiring a Spanish teacher, who will charge you by the hour. You can also save time than attending Spanish classes. This product can be used at your own convenience. There is no pressure at all.
About the Author
Rosetta Stone could just be what you're looking for if you want to learn how to speak Spanish fluently and quickly. You can buy Rosetta Stone online and in other software stores.
วันเสาร์ที่ 14 มีนาคม พ.ศ. 2552
How To Make An Audio Movie
How To Make An Audio Movie
by Ray Gross
Audio...what?
That's right, an audio movie. Although the term "audio feature" may be more appropriate, as the finished product will constitute a full feature-length presentation -- but audio movie is simple to grasp.
Aren't screenplays written as a visual medium? This is exactly why they work as audio features. Live screenplay readings have been an irreplaceable tool for the film industry since Thomas Edison's assistant, W.K. Laurie Dickenson, built the "Black Maria", the world's first movie studio. Local theater groups draw enthusiastic crowds by hosting script readings of up-and-coming writers where performers paint an entertaining and vivid image of the story, which is what good screenplays do. Now add life-like sound effects, a compelling musical soundtrack and the portability of an MP3 player, and whalla, the result is unique and engaging entertainment.
The first step is to write or acquire a great script. Preferably the screenplay has garnered some attention, like placing in a reputable screenplay contest. If this has happened, one can be reasonably sure the work is above standard. If not, one of the many script coverage services can provide valuable feedback and suggestions in case the storyline is lacking. The traditional scripting style needs to be tailored a bit for the production -- most importantly the scene headings need to be removed and the information embedded into the action lines. For example, instead of a narrator reading: EXT. HOUSE - NIGHT, it could be "Icy winds sweep a steady veil of snow across a frozen field as the bright December moon hovers over a modest farmhouse." Notice this line implies an exterior scene, at night with a house.
Extensive desktop software programs are available for recording, editing and mastering audio files. Adobe Audition and Final Cut Studio are two prominent products. Since there is a learning curve, especially if one has never used this type of software in the past, a good investment may be a manufacturer or third party training video to help speed things along. Since audio files can gobble up lots of memory don't be stingy on computing power. An external hard drive for back-ups is money well spent and an oversized monitor will accommodate the software's multiple audio track display.
There are a number of handy web services available to download royalty-free audio sound effects and musical soundtracks. SoundRangers.com offers convenient downloads from an extensive library. GrooveAddicts.com hosts an enormous database of music files and a friendly interface to sample and download tracks.
A remarkable abundance of digital-ready acting talent is available through the web. Online services like Voice123.com make casting a breeze. By posting character parts on the site, voice talent from around the world can respond instantly with customized demos and price quotes. Or one can search through the company's lengthy database to match performers perfect for roles. Many voice artists are equipped with home recording equipment and can provide high quality audio files on demand. "Phone booth" recording studios, like Gigs On The Go (www.gigsonthego.com), offer an affordable alternative and can accommodate phone patch services so directors can work with talent in real time.
With the growing popularity of mobile audio devices, demand for unique and entertaining content will grow, and audio features will evolve to rival the thriving audio book industry -- as long as there's a good story to tell.
About the Author
Ray Gross is the creator of http://www.audiocinema.com -- a venue for audio features created from original, award-winning screenplays performed by professional talent from around the world.
by Ray Gross
Audio...what?
That's right, an audio movie. Although the term "audio feature" may be more appropriate, as the finished product will constitute a full feature-length presentation -- but audio movie is simple to grasp.
Aren't screenplays written as a visual medium? This is exactly why they work as audio features. Live screenplay readings have been an irreplaceable tool for the film industry since Thomas Edison's assistant, W.K. Laurie Dickenson, built the "Black Maria", the world's first movie studio. Local theater groups draw enthusiastic crowds by hosting script readings of up-and-coming writers where performers paint an entertaining and vivid image of the story, which is what good screenplays do. Now add life-like sound effects, a compelling musical soundtrack and the portability of an MP3 player, and whalla, the result is unique and engaging entertainment.
The first step is to write or acquire a great script. Preferably the screenplay has garnered some attention, like placing in a reputable screenplay contest. If this has happened, one can be reasonably sure the work is above standard. If not, one of the many script coverage services can provide valuable feedback and suggestions in case the storyline is lacking. The traditional scripting style needs to be tailored a bit for the production -- most importantly the scene headings need to be removed and the information embedded into the action lines. For example, instead of a narrator reading: EXT. HOUSE - NIGHT, it could be "Icy winds sweep a steady veil of snow across a frozen field as the bright December moon hovers over a modest farmhouse." Notice this line implies an exterior scene, at night with a house.
Extensive desktop software programs are available for recording, editing and mastering audio files. Adobe Audition and Final Cut Studio are two prominent products. Since there is a learning curve, especially if one has never used this type of software in the past, a good investment may be a manufacturer or third party training video to help speed things along. Since audio files can gobble up lots of memory don't be stingy on computing power. An external hard drive for back-ups is money well spent and an oversized monitor will accommodate the software's multiple audio track display.
There are a number of handy web services available to download royalty-free audio sound effects and musical soundtracks. SoundRangers.com offers convenient downloads from an extensive library. GrooveAddicts.com hosts an enormous database of music files and a friendly interface to sample and download tracks.
A remarkable abundance of digital-ready acting talent is available through the web. Online services like Voice123.com make casting a breeze. By posting character parts on the site, voice talent from around the world can respond instantly with customized demos and price quotes. Or one can search through the company's lengthy database to match performers perfect for roles. Many voice artists are equipped with home recording equipment and can provide high quality audio files on demand. "Phone booth" recording studios, like Gigs On The Go (www.gigsonthego.com), offer an affordable alternative and can accommodate phone patch services so directors can work with talent in real time.
With the growing popularity of mobile audio devices, demand for unique and entertaining content will grow, and audio features will evolve to rival the thriving audio book industry -- as long as there's a good story to tell.
About the Author
Ray Gross is the creator of http://www.audiocinema.com -- a venue for audio features created from original, award-winning screenplays performed by professional talent from around the world.
Why should you choose quickbooks?
Why should you choose quickbooks?
by Clint Jhonson
Nowadays, starting and taking care of a business represents a real change and the most difficult part is dealing with your business's finances. Although there are many types of software that can help you with your business available nowadays, you need to be sure you are choosing what suits your business needs. One of the most efficient software nowadays is quickbooks, which is easy to use and highly recommended for small and medium businesses.
As far as accounting is concerned, quickbooks will help you manage all of your expenses. This software will make things much easier for you and for your accountant, allowing you to keep track of the checks you write and of your credit card bills. Furthermore, by using this software you can be sure that you will never miss an expense. Another quickbook benefit is the fact that it has several different reports which can help you see how your business is doing. Thus, you can print graphics so that you can see how much profit and loss you have every month. You can even have an annual report which will help you see how your business has fluctuated and if it needs any improvement or not.
Next, besides keeping track of your expenses and offering useful reports, quickbooks will help you create estimates and take care of the billing tasks. This program enables you to draw up estimates for your clients and also to create invoices. One of the essential aspects of using quickbook is making tax time a lot easier, since you will already have your expenditures and your income. If you decide to use this software the data will be entered just once, which enhances the efficiency of the program.
Furthermore, quickbooks integration will allow fewer errors because it is well known that people make more mistakes when entering data then professional computerized programs. Another quickbook advantage is the fact that the billing will take place a lot faster, thus increasing the cash flow of the business. The information will be updated automatically, thus diminishing the number of errors and allowing the accountant to work faster and more efficiently.
Clients will spend less money on bookkeeping services, being able to focus on other aspects. Nowadays there are 2 ways of facilitating the integration of quickbooks: batch imports and backend integration. Batch imports enable the manager to create an export file, to view the contents and to choose to import that file into quickbooks, while backend integration will allow to the systems to communicate directly, all the data being completed in real time.
We suggest resorting to quickbook if you are an accounting firm, a staffing agency, an online store, a construction company and others. This program can be easily integrated into most web applications, enabling businesses to increase efficiency and to enhance the productivity of the company. These days most companies have started to use quickbooks to handle their accounting needs such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, time tracking, vendor and client databases. Managers or accountants can import anything into this program, thus increasing their productivity and eliminating redundant data entry.
About the Author
If you are one of the many business owners, managers or accountants who aren't satisfied with the account program they are using, it is definitely time for a change. We recommend trying quickbooks and increasing the productivity of your business. We put at your disposal an efficient, affordable program and we invite you to try our quickbook.
by Clint Jhonson
Nowadays, starting and taking care of a business represents a real change and the most difficult part is dealing with your business's finances. Although there are many types of software that can help you with your business available nowadays, you need to be sure you are choosing what suits your business needs. One of the most efficient software nowadays is quickbooks, which is easy to use and highly recommended for small and medium businesses.
As far as accounting is concerned, quickbooks will help you manage all of your expenses. This software will make things much easier for you and for your accountant, allowing you to keep track of the checks you write and of your credit card bills. Furthermore, by using this software you can be sure that you will never miss an expense. Another quickbook benefit is the fact that it has several different reports which can help you see how your business is doing. Thus, you can print graphics so that you can see how much profit and loss you have every month. You can even have an annual report which will help you see how your business has fluctuated and if it needs any improvement or not.
Next, besides keeping track of your expenses and offering useful reports, quickbooks will help you create estimates and take care of the billing tasks. This program enables you to draw up estimates for your clients and also to create invoices. One of the essential aspects of using quickbook is making tax time a lot easier, since you will already have your expenditures and your income. If you decide to use this software the data will be entered just once, which enhances the efficiency of the program.
Furthermore, quickbooks integration will allow fewer errors because it is well known that people make more mistakes when entering data then professional computerized programs. Another quickbook advantage is the fact that the billing will take place a lot faster, thus increasing the cash flow of the business. The information will be updated automatically, thus diminishing the number of errors and allowing the accountant to work faster and more efficiently.
Clients will spend less money on bookkeeping services, being able to focus on other aspects. Nowadays there are 2 ways of facilitating the integration of quickbooks: batch imports and backend integration. Batch imports enable the manager to create an export file, to view the contents and to choose to import that file into quickbooks, while backend integration will allow to the systems to communicate directly, all the data being completed in real time.
We suggest resorting to quickbook if you are an accounting firm, a staffing agency, an online store, a construction company and others. This program can be easily integrated into most web applications, enabling businesses to increase efficiency and to enhance the productivity of the company. These days most companies have started to use quickbooks to handle their accounting needs such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, time tracking, vendor and client databases. Managers or accountants can import anything into this program, thus increasing their productivity and eliminating redundant data entry.
About the Author
If you are one of the many business owners, managers or accountants who aren't satisfied with the account program they are using, it is definitely time for a change. We recommend trying quickbooks and increasing the productivity of your business. We put at your disposal an efficient, affordable program and we invite you to try our quickbook.
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