Generate Truly Random Numbers for the Lottery

Today in the office we were discussing whether the different lottery game systems generate a truly random set of numbers where you play 'quick pick.'  We had different opinions.  But, it got me thinking about creating an app to do just that - generate a truly random set of numbers for lotto games... and then I went ahead and wrote the app.  https://goo.gl/vbg4zu

The app allows you to specify how many numbers you need and the range of numbers (example, 6 numbers in the range of 1 through 53).  If the game you want to play also has a 'special ball,' like the PowerBall game, you can have the app generate that number as well.  Check it out at this link: https://goo.gl/vbg4zu

Next, I'm planning to use this to create apps for iOS and Android devices.  Stay tuned for links to the mobile apps.

This was a fun, quick app to create.  And it's meant for fun only!  You can use it to generate your numbers.  But, it will in no way help you win any lottery game!!

For developers: this app is written using raw Javascript to generate the numbers.  HTML/CSS for the UI.

Please Welcome Isaac Bell

I am happy to announce a new member joining Freelance I.T. Solutions - Isaac Bell.

Isaac joins us primarily as a Project Manager. But, he brings with him a load of technical skills that will benefit our operations. Isaac is an accomplished designer and illustrator, with hands-on experience with Adobe Suite. He is also the first member to join us with Ruby on Rails programming experience.

Additionally, Isaac has knowledge and experience with:

• Node.js, 
• HTML5, 
• CSS3, 
• Javascript,
• PHP,
• WordPress. 

We are starting 2017 with a bang! Welcome Isaac!

Parallax Effect on New Website

As I look back on the blogs from 2016, I realize there are way too many blogs on marketing issues and not enough blogs on coding, cool effects, functionality, and apps.  So, I'm going to close out 2016 with this blog on the parallax effect developed for a new site I'm working on.

If you are unaware of the what the 'parallax effect' is you can visit the proof-of-concept page I did for the new client at http://fitness-365.com/fitness-365-parallax.html.  The parallax effect is when you create an effect where the page content (the words) scroll by faster than the background images.

Not only is this effect pretty neat, it has the ability to build emotional awareness of your brand (by drawing attention to the background images) at the same time it is being very informative (through the content).  Additionally, it encourages the visitor to continue scrolling to the bottom of the screen - something that is important if you have more information to present than can fit above the 'fold.'  (The fold is considered the bottom of the visible area when the site is loaded in the browser.  'Under/Below the fold' is what becomes visible when you begin scrolling down).

This is a cool, fun effect that when used properly can really enhance your website.  Check out my implementation for "Fitness-365" by clicking here.  And please let me know what you think in the comments.

Special Note: this proof-of-concept is NOT responsive yet.  So, viewing on small screens may not offer the full effect.

Editable Tables

This week's post is about adding functionality to your website or web application.  Specifically, we are going to take a quick look at editable tables.

Tables are very useful when it comes to looking at information in an organized way.  They have an obvious layout which makes them easy to use - usually.  But, often with tables on websites, you get just a table.  You can not reorganize the table to better view the information you want.  And if information needs to be changed... forget it.

Well, not so fast!  With modern browsers, some JavaScript, and some PHP on the back-end, you CAN have sortable, re-organizable, editable tables right on your website - think "spreadsheet."  Yes, with the right developer creating the right code, you can even have the tables update and recalculate numbers.

The animation here shows a simple table of clients (made up).  The company name for one of the clients is being updated.

This is just a simple example for this blog post.  As mentioned above, the functionality of an editable table can be like a spreadsheet application.  Your website can be more than just a place to display information.  It can be an interactive, truly useful application.

If you have an idea for making your website more interactive and useful (for you and/or your visitors), please feel free to contact us at questions@freelanceitsolutions.com.  You can also visit the Freelance I.T. Solutions website at http://www.freelanceitsolutions.com. :)