We Found This Key is Amazing
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under 
with I think recently launched web start-up We Found This Key is probably the best of breed when it comes to new Web2.0 companies. Everything about the site, from the clean design to the clever user interface to the decision to skip Beta and go straight to launch speaks to a clear methodology and single-mindedness you don’t often see. So many Web2.0 companies these days take a Five Buck Idea and race for beta like it’s going out of style. 
Usually they launch this idea, find out that people are using it for something totally different than they expected and have to adapt. The best companies roll with it and respond to their users wants. The worst try to force the users into only doing what the business plan says users are supposed to do. WFTK was clearly designed to be as extensible as possible. It doesn’t lock the user into ANY sort of experience or interface, instead allowing them to use the site however they want. It only asks a question.
The technology behind this site is also remarkably advanced. Rather than relying on a complicated algorithm or a ton of programming, the site designers chose to leverage a evolutionary developed computer that’s been through millions of years of subjective development time. By having the users figure out whether or not it is their key they save a ton of development time and complexity. I also like that they broke the mold of AJAXing everything that you could sink a Javascript hook into and just went with plain old HTML. Hey, it was good enough for the 90s, it’s good enough for me.
The site’s visual design also breaks with a lot of the current styles in web design. I like the clear black text on the white background and the sharp corners. There’s no flashy graphics or aqua effects anywhere. It’s retro, but retro enough to be cool again. Overall, a clean, simple and well done design.
The site is so good that they’re already rumored to be in buyout talks. Valuation is reportedly somewhere in the low millions, but bidding is apparently competitive. Not too shabby for a simple idea implemented well.
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*chuckles*
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Is it April 1 already?
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Zach also found a key. He looted it off a silithid corpse before skinning it for its rugged leather. Someone please lead an intervention for poor Zachy. o_O
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Don’t worry, Google will buy this service soon!
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“WFTK was clearly designed to be as extensible as possible. It doesn’t lock the user into ANY sort of experience or interface, instead allowing them to use the site however they want. It only asks a question.”
Anyone else reminded of that Penny Arcade about Will Wright’s new game? (http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2005/05/27)
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(aβ Member)
You take that back, damnit! Spore will be the greatest gaming experience ever! Will Wright can pee on me any time he damn well pleases.
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