There is a real challenge in maintaining a web site with database content. You need to gather the information, update it and then be able to convert it into web pages on a recurring basis. This can get laborious, or boring!
Over the last few years I have designed some pretty cool applications, using a program on the Mac called HyperCard, which makes the creation and maintenance of the different parts of the MEC web site very easy. With these applications the information is updated and then converted into web pages with the click of a mouse. Computer novices can use these tools. Without them, either:
1. You don't even try to put information such as quarterly newsletters, grand indexes, listings of community groups, or a calendar of events online.
2. You learn the basics of web page design and laboriously and manually and continually update your web pages using the HTML language or a web editor.
3. You use some kind of sophisticated web publishing program which has to work with your internet service provider (I don't know of any that do work without a steep learning curve or additional expense.)
In contrast, the applications I've created are easy to use and require no technical skills whatsoever except the ability to type and click a mouse. I am currently turning these applications into user-friendly tools that other community groups can use who have a Mac and wants to put information similar to the MEC site onto the web.
On behalf of the MEC, I have decided to offer these tools to others as "shareware" products. In other words, if you feel they make your web life easier, then send a donation to the MEC.
If you are interested, email me at dglaser@pacific.net.
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 1999
Permission granted to excerpt or use this article if source is cited