proofHQ
Basecamp from 37signals is a web-based project management application which quite a few people know about (I’ve spoken about them a number of times before). Ok, nothing new here then you might say.
Well, hold your horses – there is, and it is pretty darn good.
proofHQ is a webapp I heard of a few months ago and didn’t actually think much of it. However, having had a good look at it and the fact it integrates with Basecamp, means that I am now very interested.
ProofHQ is a smarter, easier way to manage review and approval of designs, artwork and documents. It is an online collaboration, proofing and approval tool built specifically for brands, agencies, designers, print and production.
I’ve been looking at a way of proofing materials with clients, and this looks like an impressive solution. Check out the video below:
Pretty nifty eh? I’m going to sign up and have a look, but if you are already using it, I would welcome your thoughts and experiences so far. Thanks!
UPDATE: I’ve just signed up for the free account to test it out, and I am VERY impressed. Simple sign up process and a simple set up. Some other highlights:
- Simple, simple simple to link to my Basecamp account – this then gives an option to post proof to any of my Basecamp projects – brilliant
- Great instructional videos – clear and well produced
- The UI for proofing is slicktastic – very easy to understand
One thing I think they could add is a big, visible link to go back to the dashboard from the proofing page. Apart from that, I’m going to start using this immediately and may upgrade to a paid account. Well done guys on a top job! 
Good Customer Communication from 37 Signals
If you like webapps and like using apps that just work, with the minimum of fuss, you probably have heard of 37signals, a great company who I am a BIG fan of. They make project management software and a simple but effective CRM (amongst others).
Yesterday they hosted their 37 signals live event online using ustream.tv to broadcast a live event where over 700 people chatted and asked questions.
This was a great thing to do for a few reasons:
1. Shows the people behind the brand / company
2. Creates a conversation where they are actively engaging their users and fans
3. Allows people to ask questions
4. Creates good PR!
Other companies take note – what they did is not hard, not expensive and not cheesy – it worked very well and earned them some well-deserved praise as well as being VERY useful.
Basecamp Phasing out Support for IE6
A quick heads up for my clients who are using Basecamp. The 37signals team are phasing out support for the internet browser, Internet Explorer 6. You can read about why here.
My advice would be to take the opportunity to try Firefox, Safari or if you really want (or are restricted by your IT department) upgrade to IE7. To be honest, you should be fine for a good while, but could run into trouble if 37signals change things radically in the coming months. (Being really honest, IE6 / 7 is a poor substitute to Firefox or Safari anyway!).
