THE 2009 NEAT NET TRICKS SURVEY

I am grateful for the outstanding response in the April 2009 survey. Many sources consider just a 10% sample rate to be excellent; however, in this survey about 40% of NNT readers took time from their busy schedules to complete the survey, and about one-half these responses were received within 24 hours of the invitation! I would like to quote each remark received, but in the interests of your reading time, I have consolidated them to the maximum extent possible.

About the survey in general. Many of you hated it, as I expected you would. We are flooded with surveys – on the Web, by mail, on the phone, everywhere we turn – and often they are under the guise of selling or promoting products and services. I hope in being subjected to yet another survey you understood my sole attempt was to get some useful feedback with which I could improve NNT, not only the newsletters, but the other services as well. I think the survey succeeded in that goal, but not without considerable “gnashing of teeth”.

You especially didn’t like the two questions that asked you to rank the NNT Premium items and how you use your computer. When two offered selections compared equally, you wanted to rank them the same, or enter “0” if they did not apply. I understand your frustration with that, but the purpose of the ranking questions was to provide me a total composite score with which I could determine, overall, where reader interests predominantly lie.

Question 18 was a total bomb since it asked how many tips you tried in an average issue, but it provided no way to answer the question. I apologize for the technical glitch.

OK, on to the survey.

About you in general

How old is your computer? Less than one year (16.8%); 1-2 years (29.7%); 3-4 years (35.1%); More than 4 years (18.0%); No response (<1%).

How many hours per week do you average using your computer for other than email? 0-5 hours (5.6%); 6-15 hours (32.1%); 16-25 hours per week (29.3%); 26-35 hours (16.6%); More than 35 hours (15.8%); No response (<1%).

Your preferred browser. As expected, Mozilla Firefox leads the pack (49.8%), followed closely by Internet Explorer (42.0%). Other browsers, such as Opera (2.1%) and the “catchall” Others category (5.5%) represent only a small minority of the readership. This tells me that, when I include browser tips in NNT, you want to read mostly those pertaining to Firefox and IE.

Your operating system. Windows 98 (<1%), XP (70.3%), Vista (24.2%), Mac (1.5%), Other Windows OS (<1%), Linux (<1%), No response (<1%).

How you use your home computer. Not surprising, the biggest use is email, followed in order by Web surfing in general; reference; bill paying/financial accounting; other (a catchall category); shopping; photography/design; audio; and, video. All of these applications were very closely ranked except for email (way ahead of the pack) and Web surfing in general a close #2.

Your computer expertise. Beginner/Novice (3.5%), Intermediate (49.5%), Advanced (46.4), No response (<1%).

Computer/Internet newsletters read, other than NNT. None (9.8%), 1-3 (44.6%), 4-5 (23.9%), More than 5 (21.5%).

How your Internet usage has changed this past year. No change (66.9%), Less time now (6.3%), More time now (26.1%), no response (<1%). This might be construed as a “sneaky way” to determine if you were reading less of NNT – or any newsletter – as compared with a year ago; thus, I might learn whether each issue is too detailed for the majority of its readership. Since most of you are either using your computers just as much or even more than a year ago, I probably do not need to worry about the quantity of NNT at least.

Your age group. NNT’s audience is mature: age 36-50 (10.3%); age 51-65 (46.3%); and over 65 (41.8%). Fewer than 1% of NNT readers are in any of the other age groups. This raises the question, what can NNT do to appeal to the younger readers?

Information overload or not? Excluding spam/junk mail, the majority (70.2%) like the amount of material received and wouldn’t want to change the volume. Some (21.3%) are suffering from information overload and feel they need to reduce the volume of material received, while others (8.2%) would like more. No response (<1%).


About Neat Net Tricks and its services

Do you get both the Standard and Premium editions? Standard (36.7%), Premium (17.0%), Both versions (45.2%), no response (<1%).

How long subscribed to NNT Premium? Less than 1 year (5.7%), 1-2 years (11.1%), 3-4 years (30.0%), 5-6 years (11.1%), More than 6 years (6.4%), not subscribed to Premium (27.2%), No response (8.0%). It is gratifying that so many subscribers renew year after year since the paid issue first began publication. One response: “I can’t imagine life on my computer without NNT.”

How many in your household read NNT? Mostly, just you (94.6%), two (4.3%), 3 (0%), 4 or more (<1%), no response (<1%). You really shouldn’t hoard it, you know  .

Are 24 issues per year (twice monthly) for each version about the right frequency? Yes (90.1%), Should be published less often (2.4%), Should be published more often (6.1%), No response (1.1%). Majority rules, twice monthly will continue.

Is the length of NNT Premium about right? Yes (63.9%), Too much (3.7%), Too little (1.9%), Don’t subscribe to Premium (27.3%), No response (2.9%). Again, majority rules. You’ll see little change here.

How much of NNT Premium, on the average, do you read and find interesting? 0-20% (1.4%), 21-40% (6.5%), 41-60% (14.7%) , 61-80% (21.6%), 81%-every word (23.1%), Don’t subscribe to Premium (29.1%), No response (3.3%). I didn’t expect most readers to hang on to every word published, but about one-half of you read at least one-half the content, so that’s encouraging.

Is the content of NNT about right? Too simple (4.9%), About right (59.9%), Too tekkie (1.2%), Don’t subscribe to Premium (30.0%), No response (3.6%). It’s hard to appeal to everyone, but I believe we have about the right mix.

Which features do you like most in NNT Premium? The dozen or so tips about software programs and Web sites led the pack, followed by the Software Pick-Of-The-Issue, Two-Minute Tekkie Tip, Featured article, Editorial (opening remarks), and Spotted On The Web in that order. The Say What? feature was least liked. Looks like “Say What” may have a short life span and replaced with something else.

If you’re not a Premium subscriber, what would it take to get you to subscribe? Many are already subscribed to Premium (37.3%); others said your financial situation would have to improve (24.6%), I’d have to reduce the subscription cost (12.1%), make Premium bigger (5.2%), make Premium smaller (<1%), send it out more frequently (4.6%), send it out less frequently (1.3%), Other (15.9%), and, on the other hand, nothing could be done to persuade some of you to subscribe (10.7%).

Think you’ll renew? Most say yes (61.5%), some say no (1.6%), some don’t subscribe (31.6%) and no response (5.1%).

If you don’t intend to renew your subscription to Premium, why not? Can’t afford it (4.3%), Don’t have time to read it (2.0%) Do not currently subscribe (47.2%), intend to renew (43.3%), other (2.3%) and all other responses (<1%).

As the survey indicated, there are NO plans to increase the subscription rate, $12 per year as it has been for several years. But you were asked that if this became necessary, at what point would you no longer renew your subscription. If there were any increase, 11.8% wouldn’t subscribe. If increased to $15/year, 48.8% would subscribe, 10.3% would subscribe if increased to $20/year, and 3.6% would subscribe at $25/year. Those who don’t currently subscribe to NNT Premium: 33.5%.

Your opinion about the Archives Express on CD. It is a good value for the money (16.1%), it was a waste of money (1.8%), Never ordered (78.6%), No response (3.3%).

Your opinion about the NNT Forum (Bulletin Board). Most of you have never visited the Forum but might in the future (66.1%), some (17.8%) have visited the Forum and got good advice but did not post a message, some (5.5%) posted a message and comments were helpful, some (2.5%) visited the Forum but didn’t post comments and received no help, some (<1%) said answers to their posts were not helpful, some (6.2%) said they’ve never visited the Forum and don’t intend to, and no responses (1.3%).

Your opinion about the NNT Software Review Panel. You said you read the reviews and find them useful and interesting (47.4%), believe the reviews are more credible than others you read on the Web (21.8%), rarely read them (23.0%), never read them (17.4%), think they should be lengthened with more detail (3.8%), shortened with less detail (2.8%), and other responses (6.7%).

Your opinion about the Neat Net Tricks Web site. Many (44.8%) have never visited the site, others (36.1%) find it helpful, interesting, easily navigated, and a good resource, some (14.1%) say it’s just OK, a “so-so” site, some (1.1%) say it could be improved, and other responses (5.4%).

Your other comments. These are paraphrased, combined, and edited to conserve space. Remarks that are purely complimentary in nature are omitted here. I very much appreciate these, but I think citing only those comments that are suggestions or critical in nature are more productive uses of the survey. Besides, I’d bore you with all the good stuff many of you have said about Neat Net Tricks.

Put NNT Premium on the Web site so all can read/ Put all past issues on the Web site. This was suggested by several, but what would then be the incentive to subscribe? Subscriber fees are kept to a minimum but help me defray server and other expenses. Even if a password system were used, control for paying customers only would be difficult indeed.

Lower the subscription rate of NNT Premium. In these days of rising costs, I would sure like to set a trend and reduce the $12 annual subscription rate. In truth, this is the bare minimum to cover expenses, and the rate hasn’t been increased for several years, nor is there any increase contemplated.

Put an index in ArchivesExpress so we can find tips. I tried that some 13 years ago and the index got out of hand. It would be particularly so now with 4,000 tips; cross- referencing would likely produce an index of 20,000 or more entries and I would spend my time not in composing NNT issues but in maintaining a usable index. One way you can find information in the Archives is to use the rather rudimentary global find in Microsoft Word (CTRL+F). (Side note – it surprises some that NNT is a one-person operation, except for the fantastic volunteers who staff the NNT Software Review Panel, those who respond with technical assistance on the NNT Forum, others who regularly make suggestions and contribute tips, and a superbly qualified Web designer who works cheap (as in free).)

Watch the tone. Sometimes it seems a little snarky, especially with follow-up readers. I am guessing that is a reaction to snarky readers, which is also not OK. I had to look up “snarky” which is defined as sarcastic, impatience, or irreverent in tone or manner. Maybe we could all use a little less snarkiness. I’ll have to work on that.

Does the Forum reply with answers when users write in with a problem; if so, where do you click? Almost no question goes unanswered, and few stump the experts who hang out on the Forum. You get there by clicking on “Bulletin Board” on the opening page of the NNT Web site at http://www.neatnettricks.com; or, from the link provided in every issue of NNT Premium, or, simply go to:
http://www.topfreeforum.com/neatnettricks/index.php?mforum=neatnettricks

Why do we have to register to use the Forum? Registering is a free and simple process and insures you are who you say you are. Would you want it any other way? If anyone could leave any type of message there without taking the responsibility of his/her email address on file, users could be flamed, spammed, etc. The free registration keeps the posts to the purpose intended; that is, pertaining to computers and the Internet.

Why call it “Bulletin Board”. That’s just where you post announcements. You’re right, a more descriptive term is Forum, where folks gather and pass around helpful tips and comments. We started calling it “Bulletin Board” early on and the name sort of stuck, but we’re trying to get in the habit of calling it the NNT Forum.

I got the ArchivesExpress on CD and the first part is worthless. I tend to agree with you. It’s a collection of everything published since 1996, and back then we used Windows 3.1 and Windows 95 with our Netscape 1.0 browser. It’s likely few of us are still using those dinosaurs, but there’s still enough content in the 4,000 or so tips and sound tracks to make the Archives a useful resource. You’ll see us evolve to later operating systems and browsers as you progress through the CD.

You need to hire a proofreader to correct all those mistakes. I read, reread, and correct every issue several times before it is distributed. I check every link some 24-48 hours before “publication” to make sure link rot hasn’t set in. Still, errors are inevitable but I think they are as minimal as any other publication. Hiring a proofreader would add to the cost, and guess who would have to pay? Please forgive the occasional error.

Any ideas to help my warped mentality? You need to read and reread every issue of NNT and then translate it into at least 26 languages. Another good practical exercise would be to correct all mistakes with a red pencil.

The Software Review Panel might be more useful if there were a few graphic/chart-type summaries through the reviews. We do include graphics wherever necessary to illustrate a point; otherwise, they just add to the article length which others would then find to be too long. It’s difficult to strike a happy medium.

There are blind folks using different technologies to access the Web and flash whizz bang graphics aren’t all that’s needed! Make sure all content is accessible and navigation possible and that’ll do for me. Point well taken. If you can share some specifics, you have my complete attention.

Please make my per-day hours run out to about 35 hours per day, then I might be able to read my in-box. I feel your pain. You might try setting your clock back, or flying in a fast jet in the right direction across multiple time zones.

I would like to see a column on shortcut tips for XP and Vista in every issue, like how to close open windows quickly, bring up often-used files, etc., any kind of tip that we probably already know but forget to use, and reminders of updating virus programs weekly. Good suggestion and maybe I can replace the less popular feature (such as “Say What” which didn’t fare well in the survey). As for reminders to update virus programs, could you not use the schedule feature in most good AV programs or jot the reminder on a desktop calendar?

Possible ideas for articles – compare search engines, tips for using them, compare CPUs. Thanks, perhaps I can weave it in future articles.

It is not like your old NNT issues. I understand you have to charge money for your work. I was always hoping you would find some sponsors or something else besides me, the reader. I used to really enjoy NNT. I would value some specifics from you as to how NNT has declined in content value. The Premium edition has grown much larger and now offers quite a few different angles, some of which are sure to appeal to everyone. As for sponsorship, I made the promise that NNT Premium would be ad-free, something that is a rarity these days on the Web. I can spend more time in writing/collecting and less in searching for advertising dollars.

I started receiving your new free service about 6 months ago. I don’t really like it. Again, more specifics would be appreciated. Have you considered what NNT Premium has to offer?

Many newsletters have changed to just a brief intro to a subject and then a link to read the article. I like your newsletter that is self-contained, no constant clicking to read each article. I agree, but in fairness to the other newsletters, they are attempting to overcome one of the big problems with email. Many Internet Service Providers ( ISP) will block email that reaches a certain length or contains key phrases or words that might trigger their spam filters. Just a few issues ago, I began paying for archiving service that will display an issue online when you fail to get it by email or it arrives garbled or truncated. Each archived issue has a separate link and I’ll give that to you on request if you’re a current Premium subscriber.

I would like to see if the listed programs are shareware, free, or commercial. Also, the size of the download….Also, I think you should try every program mentioned and assure us that there are no problems (no spyware, adware, etc.) …. Please test every software you link to. There have been a number of similar comments. As much as I would like to go into detail with each tip, explaining the length of a free trial, how a “free” version might be crippled or feature-limited as opposed to its paid counterpart, whether a software is in Beta form and when it is expected for final release, the period of time a shareware product can be used before it must be registered, whether the software is open-source, whether there is a later version that has been released for sale while earlier (less featured) versions are free, the size of the download and whether that is dependent on certain operating systems while others will vary, what complications have been noted by some users in downloading and installing the software, what other toolbars, etc. that might be installed with the program, things to watch out for in the privacy statement or EULA, etc……. again, as a one-person operation I simply cannot provide much greater detail than what I presently give readers. I don’t mean to appear “snarky” as another reader suggested, but subscribers must accept certain responsibilities in the use of their computers and programs thereon. As someone observed, “your mileage may vary” depending on your equipment and usage. I cannot thoroughly test each and every item mentioned in NNT and issue a guarantee that it will work problem-free on every reader’s computer. I can only incite your interest with a short description and link, and you can then visit the Web site, if you wish, to determine whether it is a program that may fit your particular needs.

Group the hints into discrete categories, e.g., word processing, neat information, video editing, music, etc. It would let the consumer survey each issue more efficiently and get them to items they do use and are interested in. NNT Premium tries to do this with a Table of Contents and brief to-the-point explanations of each item. Further categories might add little to the value but more to the length of each issue.

Don’t read the articles, or rarely. Perhaps they need to be more snappy. OK, please define “snappy”, not to be confused with “snarky”.

At the risk of possibly losing subscribers to other lists, I’d like to see you identify other computer-related emailing lists (and Web sites) that are high quality. I do that on occasion. I’m not afraid of losing subscribers to other lists, since we all have our own writing and presentation styles.

I would expect you to mention the blogs, software reviews, and other items on your Web site in the newsletter. Yep, I do it all the time. And if you subscribe to Premium you will see these mentioned in the left-hand pane of every issue, and all over the NNT Web site.

Stop sending two emails, one free and one premium. Each has different content, but if you wish to unsubscribe, details are on every issue.

Please do not give into the temptation and let your newsletter be absorbed by Window’s Secrets. Temptation avoidance has been easy since no one has tempted me. But I assure you there are no such plans. Some readers indicated that they feel the survey was a prelude to a sell-out. I assure you that was not my intent.

I think you should make a section for entertainment and give movie/music sites, etc. Sorry, I don’t think you’ll be seeing that in future issues. I don’t want to duplicate what is already in abundance on the Web. You can Google to find lots of that.

I was hoping for actual how-to-do things when I signed up…..A “how to do this” section would be helpful. Let me give this some thought.

I would be willing to pay more if you included a matrix comparison of products. Something like Consumer Reports does, as well as lots of computer publications? Wouldn’t this be a duplication of what’s already on the Web?

In these days of constant change it would be great to see just one thing continue for awhile as it is….. I sincerely hope NNT is not changed too much. Never fear, any changes will probably be so small and gradual you may not even notice. I’ve had nearly 14 years experience with this little publication and agree with the reader who observed “if it works, don’t fix it.”

I wasn’t aware of the forum. Is it mentioned in the newsletter? Yes, in every issue of NNT Premium, in the left-hand pane and the last section (“About Your Subscription”).

Make the (Web) site very interactive. Suggestions?

More MAC resources. This comment crops up regularly and many unsubscribe when they switch from Windows to Mac. You’ll note this survey shows only 1.5% of our reader base use Mac as their primary operating system. That, plus the fact that I don’t personally use Mac, means I lean more toward Windows on published tips; however, there’s a lot of information in NNT that will appeal to both sides.

Your new blog in no way resembles your Web site. Admittedly, the blog was thrown together in a hurry. If it has good participation and interest, look for great future design improvements. If it does not, look for it to disappear.

There used to be lots of tips about improving the operating system or general computer problems, now there are just a few. Have you read Two-Minute Tekkie Tip in each Premium issue?

The newsletter could use more eye appeal. Would like to see some pizzaz put into it, especially a different font. Your content is good but you need an updated layout. … Does it have to be Microsoft blue? ….Needs more graphics. If you’re referring to NNT Standard, there’ll be no change because it’s a straight-text edition. If you’re suggesting improving the design of NNT Premium, I’m always open to that and would welcome specifics.

I think it is too long and perhaps too much editorializing. Perhaps it’s just my way of venting or displaying my snarkiness.

As a novice, I run into troubleshooting problems. I would like to see if possible how to do basic troubleshooting. I believe the NNT Forum is waiting to help you when you run into a specific problem.

It could be meatier with greater depth. Specifics would be appreciated; but could this be a detriment to the more than one-half readers who consider themselves of novice or intermediate computer literacy?

I like the Table of Contents, but can you add links directly to the programs listed? If I understand your comment, simply click on the Table of Contents and you’ll navigate to that site or service.

Use a larger text size to make reading easier. Text size is a function of whatever client program you’re using to access the newsletter. Generally, you can adjust the size most easily with a wheeled mouse, by holding down the CTRL key and moving the wheel in either direction. For the visually impaired, there are also magnification programs and one that’s free in Windows under Accessories.

An obvious link to your Web site and Bulletin Board would be useful. They are in every issue of NNT Premium.

I liked it better when it was just links to sites for software. Ahh, but isn’t variety the spice of life?

I notice that some programs do not play well with others….Publishing lists of 10 best and 10 worst applications a couple of times a year would be nice. As far as compatibility, that’s definitely a problem we all must cope with. Publishing a list would be rather subjective and my best and worst probably wouldn’t agree with most other opinions.

Pattern Neat Net Tricks after XXXX newsletter or YYYY newsletter. I could do that, for sure; but then it wouldn’t be Neat Net Tricks. We are all known for our uniqueness and while ‘tis said “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”, I’d just as soon leave the imitation to others.

Thank you for participating in this survey!

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