With online user applications, the simple streamlined interface is a sought after commodity. People are more likely to use something that is easy to learn, and is useful or entertaining in their lives. For the most part, as we’ve developed web technology, the aim has been to simplify significantly for the easiest user experience. As web technology and services advance, however, so do the users and levels of users.

Is it an App or a Website?

As with most things, the UI is usually designed more like a website page than an app. When I think of apps, I think of efficient tools. I’m seeing  a lot of good things everywhere of course, but this one simple concept of managing database information quickly and efficiently gets swept into an idea born from the visual expectation of a web page. In other words, I’m saying give the ability to update records in bulk versus one at a time when creating these external toolsets. It’s the backend processing that would simply need adjusting to auto-schedule bulk updates into a stream, versus the abusive look of 20 tweets popping into a stream in the same minute.

What about abuse?

Feedback loops already in place help to weed out abusers and in social media, we need to self-police. That means we all are participating in this role of reporting the abusers. As with anything, there is a certain level of self-promotion that is a significant and important element of social media. We all want to be seen, heard, and to be known by others. In turn, we do the same as we are curious too of others.

Are there savings to be realized?

I can imagine, that were I presented with the full page of data as most apps currently serve the information, were I able to update each of the 10 to 20 records presented all at once before pressing the Submit, Send, or Save button, that there would be savings enjoyed.

Each button pressed on a web page sends information across the web. Each request returns new fresh results that are then updated on the web page. Pressing that button once to update the information presented, versus the 10 to 20 as I update each individually, and I would think that the load on the Internet Traffic would be reduced somewhat, as would the load on the server processing the requests.

I know without a doubt, that as the user experiencing this shift in updating information presented, that the savings in time would allow me to accomplish more, to engage more, and to create more.

I know functionality is a key driver in the initial stages of creating any new application. The online realms are no different. As such, I’ve chomped down on my lower lip and muscled through many of the online apps thus far to help me streamline my Twitter experience. Busy with clients, building sites, promoting social media, others sites, and so on — there is a LOT to DO — it’s rare that I find much time to really enjoy gabbing and when I do, I’m too damn tired! Not fair, eh? :p

Okay, enough of that pity party. HootSuite showed up here recently with a beautifully laid out interface that allows managing multiple Twitter Accounts, Schedule Later Tweets (didn’t see recurring/spinnable  unfortunately), integrated stats for links clicked and really what I would consider a clean and easy to follow adminstration dashboard. None of what they offer as I’ve mentioned so far is terribly unique, but I still stand firmly by the major kudos for a great interface that is doing more for usability and functionality.

What Else Stands Out?

Add Editor to help manage accounts. Wow! In others, this feature is quite different, and in the case of Tweetlater is one that insists all who manage tweets from the pro version must also be pro buyers. Well, if everyone were paying for the pro version, then us pros wouldn’t need the pro version to provide services for others, right?

It looks to me like HootSuite has seen the writing on that wall and is enabling a more seamless means to manage accounts and permissions to help people in organizations manage projects and campaigns.

I still have much more finicking here with HootSuite to do as I’ve literally just cracked open the door tonight and got all excited. Check their About Page and see their list of features. By the way, did I mention these are some local boys in Vancouver, British Columbia?

Stay tuned for more opportunities and tips using Flickr.