Archive for Ways to Build a Better World

Blogging for Blind Users: See What They See

By Patsi Krakoff
Friday, June 11th, 2010

I just got a phone call from Jacqueline Fernandez in New York City. She called because she wanted to know why a comment she left on my blog hadn’t yet been approved. I had been out of the office for several hours. What she said after that, blew me away.

Ms. Fernandez is a blind person who’s trying to navigate the Web, read blogs and leave comments. Here is her comment left on my blogging poll post, and I’ll share it with you because she deserves to be heard. If any of you out there have a suggestion to help her, please leave a comment, or go to her site and connect with her.

“I’m so frustrated and I’m about to throw in the towel with Social media. I am a blind person trying to make it on the internet for over two years now, but its been a total nightmare for me due to the lack of accessibility [for blind people] on the ‘Net.

“At the moment I’m using Posterous. This is the only blogging platform that works with my screen reader, but I am noticing that they are adding new features [graphics] and that means that I have to pack up my bags full of my content and find another Blogging site.

“I would love to be on the cutting edge and use WordPress so I can get indexed by Google and get traffic, but its so hard for me to set WP up with all the plugins and themes.

“For all those taking this poll try this little experiment. It can open your eyes a little bit into an unfamiliar world & hopefully you will understand the importance of having [enhanced] accessibility in your web sites.

“Are you ready? Here you go: take the test & experience my world of darkness . http://j.mp/9JYHHm”

Thanks, Jacqueline, for opening our eyes to your world. I’m glad you were able to read my posts, and to respond to the poll. You’ve given me, and others, something to think about…

Categories : About Blogs, Attracting Clients, Content Marketing, Ways to Build a Better World
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Seth Godin Gets a Brain-Poke on What Really Matters

By Patsi Krakoff
Monday, January 25th, 2010

Pic What really matters to you? I mean beyond the usual success metrics…?

I know many people struggle. From what I hear from friends back in the US, some people are in seriously dire straights employment-wise, financially. No family is without loved ones who haven't found work, or if they have a job, aren't earning what they should.

Even when the economy improves (and it has in some sectors), there remains The Big Problem: there are a lot of unhappy people not finding fulfillment and meaning in life, in work, in what they do each day.

Seth Godin is an interesting human being who has brought us new ways
of thinking by writing 10 best sellers, including Unleashing the
IdeaVirus, Permission Marketing, Purple Cow,and Tribes. His latest book, Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? publishes on Amazon today.

This book is personal. It's about finding what really matters, and making a real difference in the world. Seth is concerned about what's happening, beyond the economy, beyond marketing.

I'm very concerned. Like Seth, I'm hoping there's a way for each of us to reach the kernel of genius
within… to start creating art instead of doing work… to engage in artistic leadership instead of mediocre obedience… to become more generous
with our genius.

So are a lot of other bloggers. You can learn more about what other people are saying over on Squidoo, here. Here's how you can listen to my interview with Seth:

Read More→

Categories : Books, Coaching/Personal Development, Ways to Build a Better World

Back to School: Some kids can’t afford to go
…and that’s not right!

By Patsi Krakoff
Friday, September 11th, 2009

HppySchoolKids What if you couldn't afford the books, pencils, uniforms and fees to send your child to public school? That's what some families face here in my village of Ajijic and the Lake Chapala area of Mexico.

Through no fault of their own, they don't have enough money to pay the additional fees every child incurs for a "free" public education. These are working families, who struggle to house, clothe and feed each other. There's just not enough left to send some of their kids to school. (Photo credit: Shutterstock)

We can help. The Mexican government pays for the school buildings and teachers' salaries, but that's it.

There's an organization here that can do so much for just a few dollars. Los Ninos de Ajijic y Chapala can sponsor a child for $75 for a whole year of grade school. Even if you donate a dollar or two, that goes a long way down here.

Why not donate a dollar for each child in your family? Or a dollar for as many years education that you've achieved? For me, that would make $25, including graduate school and continuing education courses.




I would never have been able to go to college without the kindness of strangers who gave me and my family money. If you can, use this button to donate through PayPal. I will match your donation.

Categories : Ways to Build a Better World

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