A product developer’s success is often dependent on the tools he knows how to use.
Whether you are creating digital products, CDs, DVD’s, videos, web sites, books or reports, having the right tool and knowing how to use it can make the difference between creating a quality product or not getting it done at all.
Here are some of my favourite tools I currently use:
Graphics and Photos
Graphics can really spice up your web site and professionalism. There are a few tools that I use to help with my various sites. These include:
Snagit from Techsmith – This is top on my list for “must have” programs. Besides allowing very easy screen captures, you can also edit them; capture short video screen captures etc. For $39.95 it is a real bargain.
Camtasia Studio – The big brother to Snagit, Camtasia lets you record and edit online video screen captures. This is a great tool for websites whether you want to create a demo of how to use something on your site or you wish to create bonus downloadable videos.
istockphoto.com – This site has quickly earned its spot as my favourite place to find web site graphics. For as little as .50 cents a royalty free photo, it is really hard to go wrong. A very nice plus is that the site is growing every day.
eCover Generator – This is the program we use to create eBook Covers, Makes creating eBook
covers an absolute doddle.
Productivity Tools
Activ eBook Compiler – This was one of my first investments for my online business, which I purchased way back in 2001. Activ eBook Compiler allows me to create eBooks and simple software products right from my desktop. We use it for almost all our products, and highly recommend it. At under $30, Activ eBook Compiler is very affordable, easy to use, creates great looking ebooks, and includes all the advanced features you would expect in a much more expensive product. You can even download a free trial version!
Memberstudio software – Memberstudio this is the software developed by Robert Barret to create and manage members only and subscription web sites. Memberstudio is used by large companies as well as by entrepreneurs to fully automate the creation and management of subscription web sites. With Memberstudio powering your site, you need no other tool. Everything is fully automatic. Expensive, but worth it
