We’ve been pretty busy lately, especially considering the state of the economy (this map might have something to do with it.) We’re about to kick off three major projects, and we’re finishing up a host of smaller ones. But we’re taking the calm before the storm to refine some of our internal processes that have until now been informal and intuitive:

• Information Architecture:
  We’ve formalized our IA process in anticipation of an upcoming project with the iPlant initiative, and we’re looking forward to working with their new usability expert: none other than Brenton Elmore of Azinno.
• Project Management:
  We’ve also established our client project management website using Project Pier, which is sort of an open source BaseCamp.
• Branding Process:
  Monte has developed a branding process that involves a series of interview questions and a series of guidelines to facilitate the creation of logos and organizational identity. This will be posted to the website soon.

Some other things we’re working on:

Google Heat Mapping using flex

• Design and Identity Samples:
  Monte has been culling our portfolio to better represent our identity and branding work on the website, where it is currently underrepresented.
• Heat Mapping:
  We’re working with TPAC to develop a google heatmap to visually represent youth participation across Tucson. Demos on the Artivism Tucson Youth Week site soon now! (4/24/09)
• Live Ajax Updating from Solar Panels:
  We’re working on getting live feeds for TFS solar so they can show live data for their clients’ solar panel installs. Currently this can be seen on the Brooklyn site and on its corresponding profile page on the TFS site.
• Not using WP-Firewall? You should be!
  If you’re in the mood for feeling paranoid, install the WP-Firewall plugin and wait a day or two. You’d be amazed how many automatic attacks are intercepted on an almost daily basis. Most are looking for older vulnerabilities that have been repaired, or looking for vulnerabilities in non-WordPress systems.
  

  A sample report from wp-firewall