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Block 81 Blog

Insights on web design, development, and running a small studio.

Studio News

22 Years of Block 81

After 22 years in web design, I'm reflecting on the journey from table-based layouts and Flash to responsive design and modern workflows. From learning that responsiveness means client communication…

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Productivity & PM

Organizing My Life With Things 3 in 2025

An updated look at my streamlined Things 3 productivity system after four years of refinement. Discover how I've evolved my task management approach with a focus on Life Admin+, structured Internal…

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For Clients

How User Experience Design Increases Website Conversion Rates

Poor user experience doesn't just frustrate visitors—it actively sends them to your competitors. Learn how the 7 essential UX elements can transform your website from a business expense into a…

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For Clients

Mastering Website Performance Speed Optimization: From Diagnosis to Results

Master the art of website performance speed optimization with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to diagnose speed issues, implement proven optimization techniques, and measure your results. From…

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For Clients

The Business Owner's Guide to Website Hosting (Without the Technical Jargon)

Website hosting doesn't have to feel like rocket science, despite all the marketing hype and tech jargon. This guide helps you figure out what you actually need, avoid expensive mistakes, and choose…

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Process

The Niche Myth: Why Being a Jack-of-All-Trades Isn't Career Suicide

Everyone keeps telling freelancers to 'find your niche or perish,' but after 20+ years in business without one, I'm here to tell you that being a Swiss Army knife in a world of scalpels might just be…

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Productivity & PM

Apple Notes & NotesCmdr

NotesCmdr is a simple app that brings Markdown and slash commands to Apple Notes, making it way more efficient for your daily note-taking. It's not "true" Markdown, but honestly? It's just enough to…

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For Clients

When Your Bookkeeper Ghosts You: A Tale of Unanswered Contact Forms and Unexpected Shutdowns

After my bookkeeping company suddenly shut down, I discovered that most companies couldn't be bothered to respond to contact form inquiries—ultimately highlighting why the one company that actually…

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For Clients

Beyond the Launch: Why Smart Businesses Partner with Web Studios for Ongoing Success

Your website is working 24/7 as your digital storefront, and just like any hard-working team member, it needs proper support. A website support retainer isn't just another monthly expense; it's about…

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For Clients

Your Website Is a Dealbreaker: How to Know When It’s Time for a Redesign

Discover when and why your professional services website needs a redesign.

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Studio News

Dear 2024: Bye

2024 was tough. I aim to slow down in 2025

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Process

Git Commit Messages

I've started writing Git Commit messages in a way that keeps things organized and makes future me a bit happier and less stressed.

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