Yes, you're familiar with spring cleaning, but digital spring cleaning? It's something we do every year here at The Poppy Seed Collective and it's super rewarding. So where do you begin? We give you a few tips.
1. Organise your desktop
This might seem obvious, but it's something a lot of us are guilty of. If you clear the clutter on your desktop, you'll finally be able to see the picture of your cat or your inspirational scenic breathing-space. To do a quick clean-up, create folders right there on your desktop and start sorting. Just remember that these folders need to find a home in a folder too - don't just leave them there.
2. Update or create your web presence
Whether you're an individual or a business, it's essential to have an online presence with a website and social media platforms. Update your pictures on your social media pages and take a long, hard look at your website. Digital media dates really quickly, so it's essential to keep your pages modern and sleek with relevant content and stylish images.
Is your website responsive? That means it looks great on any device from a desktop to a smartphone and tablet. We all know what it's like to keep pinching a touch screen if a site doesn't load properly. Most people access the internet from smart devices, so it's important that your website navigates easily. That way your clients and customers will browse your site for longer.
3. Delete unused apps and uninstall software
Uninstalling software that you haven't used in a while will not only make it easier to find the programs you do use, but it also makes your computer faster. Also go through your phone and check which apps you don't use. Downloaded a Spanish-to-English translation tool for your trip to Barcelona two years ago? It's time to let it go. App purchases are stored in the cloud, so once deleted, you can always download these again without paying for them.
4. Change your passwords
We're supposed to do this more than once a year, but it's one of those little things we often forget about. Remember, don't use the same password for a variety of log-ins, especially online banking. If someone cracks the code, they'll have access to all your personal information. The most secure passwords are those that are a little longer, that make use of combined words and a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers and special characters. And no, PASSWORD is not a password.
5. Instant refresh
Once you've done all the sorting, it's time for the fun. Update all your backgrounds, from your phone to your desktop, buy yourself a new cover and assign new ringtones to your phone's functions. Your device will feel like it's brand new and it will herald a fresh approach, exactly what we need as we head into the end-of-year slump.
Have fun!
Need help with your digital spring clean?
You're at the right place. The Poppy Seed Collective is running a website design promotion during the month of September. With a brand spanking new personal portfolio site from as little as R2 500 and a company info site from just R5 000, chat to us to discuss your specific needs. We also do social media management.
Terms and conditions apply.