Avatar News : May 2010

Warm Greetings! This month, we take a look at using WordPress as a content management system and explore the benefits of WordPress themes. There are many themes to choose from, each offering simple and affordable Web site solutions. Due to the popularity of our jQuery vs Flash article last month, we have added a jQuery Technique of the Month section. Check out this new and exciting section for great tips and ideas for animating your Web site. As always, we have a delightful selection of interesting tidbits as well as this month's sites of interest.

In This Edition

• WordPress Themes
• jQuery Technique of the Month
• Tidbits
• This Month's Sites Of Interest

WordPress Themes

WordPress is an extremely popular and easy-to-use content management system (CMS) and also offers a vast gallery of attractive design themes. Here are a few reasons why WordPress Themes are worth considering for your web site's design:

• Free, paid and custom options available
• There are thousands to choose from
• Themes can be customised to match your brand
• You can easily update your site's design
• Many themes are designed to be search engine friendly
• There are also widgets available that can be easily added to enhance your site

The vast selection of WordPress themes available means they can be used for all business models and customised to suit your needs. View the Free Themes Directory, Commercial Themes Directory or check out example Avatar-created WordPress designs below:

• Canterbury Mazda
• Freedom In Motion Mobility
• Kevin Eder Consulting

If you're interested in using WordPress as a CMS and taking advantage of a great selection of themes, get in touch with us.

jQuery Technique of the Month

jqDock - As some of you will know, a "dock" is a set of images that expand and reduce in size when you move your mouse on or near it. You can select the direction in which each image expands and specify a vertical or horizontal orientation for the dock. The great thing about jqDock is that it allows plenty of room for personalisation and styling. jqDock is great to use if you're wanting to add a more dynamic menu and navigation structure. View an example of a jqDock.

If you're interested in adding a jqDock to your Web site, contact us or read more about jQuery in last month's Newsletter.

Tidbits

Large Hadron Collider. The first high-energy collisions were achieved on March 29th. After a few hiccups getting the LHC operational, it's going to be interesting to hear how their 'dark matter' research develops.

Cardstacker. Prepare to be amazed. Time and patience are obviously things Bryan Berg has a lot of!

Solar Transit. The only image ever taken of a transit of a space shuttle and the Hubble Space Telescope in front of the Sun.

Suit Commute. For those of you who like to cycle to work but hate the crushed suit on arrival, try this for size. Now we just need an answer to helmet hair...

Improving Client Trust. Check out our latest blog article on improving trust with your clients. We consider four ways to establish an ongoing client-business relationship.

This Month's Sites Of Interest

Canterbury Mazda (Web site design, development and marketing) The largest sole Mazda dealership in New Zealand. They stock a wide range of new and used private and commercial vehicles and have knowledgeable and experienced staff to carry out any mechanical repairs. The Canterbury Mazda site was created using WordPress and includes a WordPress shopping cart and Flash banners.

Christchurch Civic Trust (Web site design, development and marketing) Promoting the protection and enhancement of our historic city, as well as positive redevelopment, building and green space planning and quality of modern urban design. The Christchurch Civic Trust site was designed using WordPress and features jQuery fading animation and different templates and colour schemes.