WordPress blogging platform reveiw

JBrock Consulting Inc

JBrock Consulting Inc is creating a new eCommerce site to support the mission of helping business and individuals succeed in business as entrepreneurs.  We have deployed an internal WordPress development system for testing using Microsoft WebMatrix development application.  In conjunctions with setting up a new WordPress site, we are reviewing and updating our development platform.

The first step in the process is installing and configuring WordPress. Our first preference was to host on our internal Web server.  This is the most cost effective option, but requires additional configuration and support.  We are using this as our back and recovery option.

The second option is to have our WordPress site hosted.  JBrock Consulting is a Microsoft certified, so Azure hosting and web application development was a natural fit. We were able to get our WordPress site up and running in a few hours. The speed and the performance of the site are very good and fits our needs.

The second option was to use Amazon Web Service (AWS) to host our WordPress site.  We reviewed the service and implementation process.  The configuration and set up of WordPress on AWS required a SSH or Putty to begin implementation. At the time we put, AWS on the back burner.

We are excited about rolling out our new WordPress site.  Please check out our new site at JBrock Consulting Inc.

Home Automation

Home Automation:

We started our journey towards Home Automation with the purchase of the Nest thermostat. The projected cost savings was approximately 10% of heating bill. This would cover the cost of the Nest in year (1) one.

I got the Nest thermostat as a Christmas gift so I had no up front cost. Once it was unwrapped,  we did a product review video and updated the installation instructions. The only concern I had was the wiring. Since the wiring was low volt, labeling and installation of the thermostat  was simple.

Nest has created installation videos that makes the process relatively simple.( Nest Installation video ) Once the Nest is installed, you connect it to your wireless network and your off and running.

The next step was to install Nest application  on my smart phone, I configured Auto-away which sets the temperature at lowest level which was typically 60 degrees. This helps save energy costs while everyone is away at work. The last step to  complete Home Automation is to set up a heating schedule.  The schedule warms up the house prior to us waking up for the day.

The Nest has saved on heating cost and can be proven out by the Energy History report. The Nest has helped us begin our journey towards Home Automation.