Do people in your cubicle space compare you to Jim from The Office? Besides your good looks and savvy business skills, we bet you’re the go-to guy or girl who can plan games and last-minute parties the second your boss leaves for a meeting. Whether your circumstances limit you to a stealth office party or you’re set on planning the happy hour blowout of the year for your friends after work, these 100 web tools are for you.

Games

From online games to paper football with your office mates, these games will keep the party going without the boss catching on.

1. Games You Can Play in the Office: This guide has all kinds of silly games like off-ground tick/tag, during which players try to see who can make it without touching the floor the longest.
2. 7 Office Games You Can Play with Your Co-workers: From Paper Football to Bullshit Bingo, these games can be played with just your cube mates or as an office-wide tournament.
3. OfficeGameSpot.com: Get everyone in the office to play games on this site and compare your scores.
4. Office Hoops: Inspired by the TV show The Office, this computer game challenges you to throw as many paper wads as you can into the trash can.
5. Truth or Dare Questions: Pull from this list of questions to challenge your co-workers during office truth or dare.
6. Cubicle Warfare: Ask your burnt out co-workers to join in on this game. First, select your office weapon: a paperclip, staple or rubber band. Then it’s on.
7. Who Would You Do and Desert Island: Remember when Jim organizes these games during the fire at Dunder Mifflin? You can learn a lot about your co-workers this way.
8. Island Mini-Golf: Up to four players can participate in this game.
9. Office Trivia Game: Use the famous lightning round trivia game idea from Friends to see which team knows more about office romances, the boss or each other.
10. Scavenger Hunt: Use this guide to get you started. You can use your own office or the entire building.
11. Very Funny Boardroom Bingo: Spaces on this bingo board are called URL, tactical, value-added, think outside the box and other irritating office lingo.
12. Office Party Games and Ideas: A few of these are a little lame, but you can get pretty creative with the Give Me game.
13. Top 10 Office Pranks Exposed: When you’re tired of playing games, try out a few of these pranks and see if anyone’s brave enough to get you back.
14. The Cubicle Prank Toolbox: 25 Great Ideas to Jack with Your Co-workers: Pranks in this list include sticking post-it notes to everything, steal their mouse ball and make them think they have a hearing problem.

Music

If you don’t want to hire a DJ, you can download, organize and manage the music for your party with these online tools.

15. EZ Tracks: Download free music of any genre here.
16. Spiral Frog: Here you can search by new releases, top downloads, artists or genres, and audio and video downloads are free.
17. We7: Sign up to create playlists and learn about artists and new hits on We7.
18. Grooveshark: Grooveshark generates playlists for you based on your musical interests.
19. Last.fm: If you don’t have much time to pick out new music, Last.fm will recommend music to you based on what you already listen to.
20. Ronan’s Online Karaoke: Gather your co-workers around for free karaoke on your computer.
21. GigMasters: If you want to book an actual band or live entertainment for your party, you can look up talent here.
22. iTunes Genius: When you’re out of ideas for new music or crunched for time, turn on your Genius tool on iTunes to get recommendations of new music or to create a playlist from the songs in your library.
23. Pandora: If radios aren’t allowed in your office, use this online version.
24. Rhapsody: Watch music videos and play music here.

Refreshments

Your office party is better than the vending machine. Get creative with office-friendly recipes and party snacks here.

25. Aramark: If you’re really sneaky, you can risk charging supplies on your company’s Aramark account.
26. Set up an office bar: Transform the basement or even the rooftop to your own private bar.
27. Chips and Dip recipes: From salsa to bean dips to shrimp dips, get ideas for what you’ll make (or order) right here.
28. Holiday Office Party: CookingLight’s holiday office party recipes include roasted red pepper and green bean salad, and chocolate pound cake.
29. Party Snacks and Appetizers: Here you can find even more party snack ideas.
30. Bar cart: Even if your office doesn’t have an official bar cart, stock one during lunch and roll it around as a surprise treat for your co-workers.
31. Nationwide Catering: Call up these professional caterers if you don’t have time to make anything yourself.
32. Potluck recipes: If you want ideas for a potluck party, browse these recipes.
33. CHOW’s intense brownies: Brownies are always a party favorite, and this recipe is totally indulgent.
34. Mugs: Drink or pass out snacks in mugs if your office has a no-alcohol or no-food policy.
35. PizzaHut.com: Order pizza without having to broadcast your order on the phone with this tool.
36. Special Order Keg List: For more liberal offices, order a keg from this list.
37. Quiznos: This popular sandwich shop also makes it easy to order online.

Invitations

Get the word out about your fabulous party using Twitter, Evite and other online tools.

38. Evite: Upload a photo of your logo or office space to customize your Evite.
39. Facebook: Send a mass message or create your own party page to notify friends of your party.
40. Twitter: For a spontaneous and under-the-radar party announcement, send invites over Twitter. (Yes, this is a bit less formal than sending cocktail party invites or wedding programs.)
41. MyPunchbowl: This online party planner lets you send save-the-dates, invitations, and a poll for a date feature that lets you ask coworkers when they have conflicts.
42. Socializr: Send free online invitations and upload your party pictures afterwards using Socializr.
43. Meetup: If your friends and coworkers are on Meetup, use this platform to schedule and plan a party outside the office.

Party Favors

Shop for party favors to thank your guests for keeping your party under the radar.

44. Cafe Press: Customize mugs, t-shirts and more with Cafe Press.
45. SeeJaneWork: Female colleagues will love the cute office gifts sold on this site.
46. Gift Ideas for the Office Worker: Pass out geeky badge holders, a digital voice recorder pen and other fun gifts at your party.
47. Gag Gifts: Find blow-up dolls and other gag gifts here.
48. The Office Holiday Gift Guide 2007: From the DVD to Dundie Awards, you can get ideas from the TV show here.
49. The Office Shop: Find more gifts from The Office at the official NBC store.
50. Pink Slip: Depending on your office culture, this could be kind of a sick joke, but a fake pink slip could also be funny.
51. Bonus: Slip $1 into an envelop marked "bonus" to surprise your guests.

Themes

Make your party even more fantastic by choosing a theme. These web guides will help you think of ideas and plan for the special day.

52. Popular Theme Party Ideas: From Bingo Party to College Party, find theme ideas here.
53. Theme Parties: Get ideas for decorating and food here.
54. Gift Exchange Party: Here are different ideas for gift exchanges, including White Elephant and Right-Left Present Swap.
55. How to Throw a Theme Party: This article has ideas for theme parties and a checklist for your supplies.
56. Theme Parties ‘N’ More: Get ideas for decorations with this website.
57. Party Theme Shop: Shop for theme party supplies here.

Surprise Parties

Sometimes a surprise party is the only way to go in an office that’s strict about rules. Wait until the boss is in a good mood or out of the office and bust out the snacks, drinks and music. This list shares even more tips.

58. How to throw a surprise party (and not get caught): This guide knows that surprise parties at the office are risky…and a lot of fun.
59. How to Plan an Office Surprise Party: This simple guide has tips for choosing the best day and time, sending invitations and more.
60. Surprise Office Party Gone Wrong: Avoid this tactic for surprising a co-worker.
61. How to Throw a Successful Surprise Party: Follow these eight tips to plan a surprise party without getting discovered.
62. Surprise Party Ideas: Evite shares tips for planning food, drinks, decorations and more.
63. How to Throw a Surprise Party: This About.com guide shares tips for an easy-to-throw surprise party.
64. How to Throw a Fabulous Surprise Party: Emma Halliday has ideas for picking a venue, selecting a date and coming up with the guest list.
65. Top 5 List for Throwing a Surprise Party: Here you can learn when to have guests show up and more.
66. Thinking of Throwing a Surprise Party?: This guide shares tips in a quiz format, testing you on your ability to throw a great party.
67. Surprise Party for All Ages: Here Betty Crocker shares surprise birthday party menu ideas and more.

Project Management

Sign up for your own account and invite your co-workers to join so that you can plan parties, figure out who’s bringing what, and keep in touch on the sly.

68. HyperOffice: This project collaboration tool offers pay-as-you-go pricing so that you can set up an account only when you need it.
69. Basecamp: This remote access tool is great for checking party updates even when you’re not at the office.
70. Zoho Projects: The free plan is good for one project, and Zoho offers tools like time tracking, a calendar and project collaboration.
71. Plan Projects: This free tool lets you assign people to certain tasks like bringing snacks, acting as a lookout and more.

Venues

From getting creative in your office to booking some place cool ahead of time, don’t forget to plan out your venue.

72. Agenda Online: Find venues across the U.S. here.
73. The Venue Library: UK offices can search for hot venues here.
74. Happy-Hour.org: This directory is still pretty new, but happy hour spots in major cities like Houston, Boston and New York are included.
75. The Pub Directory: This site has over 900 pubs listed in the U.S.
76. Holiday Inn: Consider throwing your party in a room at a hotel like the Holiday Inn.
77. Local Parks Directory: For an outdoor picnic or party, use this directory to find local parks by state.

Photo/Video

Document your party by hiring a photographer, setting up a webcam, and sharing photos on Flickr. These web tools will help you get everything set up the easy way.

78. How to Hire a Photographer: Follow these instructions if you’re considering hiring a photographer for your event.
79. Photography Pros: Here you can look up professional photographers in the directory.
80. Flickr: Post your photos on Flickr to share memories from your kick-ass party.
81. YouTube: Upload your video onto YouTube…unless your party got a little too crazy.
82. Webcam: Set up a webcam at your desk for co-workers to stop by and leave a funny message during the party.

Decorations

Whether your party is limited to the cubicle ring around the water cooler or you’re able to rent out a whole conference room, use these decorating tips to make the most of your party.

83. ShinDigz: Order custom banners and other decorations from this website.
84. PartyPro.com: Search for decorations by theme or event here.
85. Party Secret: This site offers heavily discounted decorations.
86. Party City: Shop online from this retailer and have the decorations delivered right to your venue.
87. Caribbean decorations: Learn how to make grass skirts and decorate for a Caribbean island theme.
88. 1980s party: setting the scene: Get decorating tips for a 1980s theme party here.
89. Setting up the buffet: Discover how to correctly set up a buffet table here.
90. Wilton Cake Decorating: Get tips and ideas for cake decorating here.
91. Party Cheap: Find inexpensive decorations for your party here.
92. How to Decorate Your Party on a Budget: You probably don’t want to spend a lot of your own money, but you can’t skimp on decorations. Find out how to make it all work by following this guide.

Etiquette

Make sure your office mates don’t become so rowdy or inappropriate that corporate has to take away your bonus. Learn the proper etiquette tips here.

89. Office Holiday Party Etiquette: Monster Career Advice cautions co-workers to party in moderation.
90. Office Party Etiquette 101: Get tips on introducing party guests and remembering names with this guide.
91. Office Party Etiquette: Figure out dress code and more from this list.
92. Oh, Behave!: Portfolio’s guide teaches you "who to talk to, when to leave and how to manage an office-party crisis."

Planning Tools

Keep everything organized with these tools.

93. Party Pop: Here you can research everything from entertainment to photographers to your budget.
94. Best Party Ever: Get party ideas, advice from the experts, recipe planners and more planning help here.
95. MyPartyPlanner.com: Get party tips, theme ideas and vendor connections through this site.
96. Party Planning 101: AllRecipes.com has put together this resource for organizing decorations, invitations, entertainment and food.
97. Shaws Party Planning 101: This checklist reminds you to plan the menu, make a shopping list, choose lighting and music, and more.
98. Party Gophers: Search for vendors and more by zip code.
99. Planners Guide: Get worksheets for all kinds of parties, like corporate events, company picnics, buffet menus and more.
100. Party Planning Checklist: Use this checklist to make sure you’re on track.

Posted in Office Tips, Web Tools -- No Comments

Despite the many wifi spots that are popping up all around airports, coffee shops and even whole neighborhoods, it’s sometimes hard to find a free, secure and stable connection. For many freelancers, students, business travelers and other professionals who have to spend time out of their office or on the road, Adobe AIR is a great solution for maximizing productivity, even if you don’t have an Internet connection. Read on for 100 of the best apps that will increase your productivity with Adobe AIR.

Social Apps

Use these apps when you want shortcuts or offline solutions to Digg, Twitter, Facebook and more.

1. SocialAddict: Facebook, FriendFeed, MySpace and Twitter are some of the services supported by this desktop tool, which lets you load mobile pages "for easy access."
2. Twibble: This Twitter app comes with six icons, lets you see Twitter timelines and see the location of other Tweets.
3. DiggTop: Check Digg posts 10 at a time with this tool.
4. Toro Twitter AIR client: This popular Twitter client comes with an integrated search and tabs for recent, public, friends, replies and search.
5. RAPTR Client: This gaming app can be accessed offline.
6. SedThink: This application currently supports Facebook, Twitter, Hi5, Feed readers and Thai stock tracking, all in one interface.
7. Apprise: With this tool you can share and streamline stories from AIM, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace and even your e-mail in 16 different languages.
8. Zebr: View and manage Facebook from your desktop.
9. Moderator - Wordpress comment moderator in AIR: Moderate your Wordpress comments offline with this tool.
10. Mini Digg: Read and digg stories from your desktop with Mini Digg.
11. Lifestream.fm: Keep up with your lifestream.fm friends offline with this tool.
12. @eventtrack: Stay connected to world events even if you don’t have an Internet connection with this app.
13. DeskTube: Search and watch YouTube videos with this app.

Shopping and E-Commerce

Whether you’re selling your own products online or you just want to keep track of your bid on eBay, try out these tools.

14. Level Four Storefront: Manage your Flash e-commerce shopping cart with this tool.
15. TheSlurps eBay "Browse your Photo" Desktop Widget: Search eBay offline with this personalized widget.
16. Yahoo Desktop Search Widget: Search Yahoo! with this tool.
17. Cheapo: Get alerts on special online deals from different sites with Cheapo.
18. Allurent Desktop Connection and Anthropologie: "Valued customers" can shop Anthropologie from their desktop with Allurent.
19. eBay Desktop: This app features one-click search filters, alerts, history and more.
20. CL Desktop: Craigslist shoppers can use this app to view product photos, descriptions and search results.

Multimedia

From Flickr to YouTube to Picasa to Pandora, all of these apps offer desktop solutions for remote and offline management.

21. Picasa Image Browser: This browser lets you view public images from Picasa.
22. Doppelganger: Download, drag and drop online videos with Doppelganger.
23. DestroyFlickr: Manage Flickr with the app that actually features "really good online documentation with screenshots."
24. Pandora - Music on AIR: This desktop app is for U.S. users only.
25. Finetune: This customizable music tool lets you search for new artists and music, create your own playlist and more.
26. uvLayer: Upload videos, and use AIM, GTalk or Facebook to manipulate and share videos with friends.
27. Chorducopia: Songwriters who have either PCs or Macs can get recommendations for picking chords with this app.
28. Thumbfall: Conduct image searches supported by Google, FriendFeed, FFFound, Yahoo and more with Thumbfall.
29. Bookmash: This popular app can be used on Windows, Macs and Linux to watch, share and upload videos, music, photos, social searches, news and RSS.
30. Podcast Player: You can play pre-loaded podcasts from Buzz Out Load, New.com Tech News and Slate Daily with this app.
31. Splasup Light: Edit your digital photos with this app.
32. Flaivor: This app uses RSS to stream entertainment videos to your desktop.
33. MYMediaPlayer: This tool may actually hurt your productivity, but it’s a lot of fun. You can watch videos and online TV shows easily.
34. Adobe Media Player: This is the offline version of Adobe Media Player, which lets you download Internet TV and videos.

Web Developer and Design

These apps are great for web developers and web designers who want to work from their desktop and manage their files.

35. Google Analytics: This reporting app is great for bloggers and web developers who don’t always have an online connection.
36. Font-picker: Web designers use this tool to help them decide which of their saved fonts are the best match for whatever they’re doing.
37. Snippely: With this app, you can organize your code and text bits more efficiently.
38. WebSnapshot: Manage thumbnail, browser and full-page images to save and resize.
39. JavaScript Special Effects: If you like to use JavaScript, then take a look at this free app.
40. SnurlIt: Make long URLs short and manageable with SnurlIt.
41. Dot3D: View images in 3D, including JPG, PNG, GIP, BMP and ICO files.
42. Shrink-O-Matic: Resize photos with a drag and drop interface.
43. designview: designview is a great app for designers who like using Flex Builder Design View.
44. Icon Generator: Create CS# or Web 2.0 icons in just three steps.
45. JavaScript Style Switch: Play around with different designs without having to change HTML codes.
46. SearchCoders Dashboard: Connect with other web developers with this Flex-related app.
47. Pixus: Preview your designs without having to switch back to low-res views.
48. .merlin: .merlin finds and organizes all of your saved fonts.

Business Tools

Here you’ll find a great list of apps that work for the busy business professional, including calculators, stock analysis and more.

49. Klok: Use this time tracking tool when you’re trying to fit in extra projects at off times.
50. NASDAQ Market Replay: Those who track the NASDAQ and NYSE will love this replay and analysis app.
51. Timeloc: Timeloc is another time tracker that is great for freelancers and contract workers.
52. Scientific Calculator: Access a scientific calculator for your business and financial equations with this app.
53. VAT Calculator: This calculator can calculate VAT inclusive and exclusive values.
54. Jipingmi Pro: If you’re in the market for Chinese real estate, use this tool.
55. [G]OneTime: [G]OneTime is another time tracking tool.
56. Ora Time and Expense: This app helps you manage expense reports, invoices and timesheets.
57. Point of Sale Software (POS): Retailers and store owners can use this tool to get "a better overview of your business, your employees and your customers." Get updates daily.
58. Google Calendar Invoice Creator: Clock your billable hours and generate HTML or text invoices with this tool.

Contacts and Communication

Manage all of your instant messages and e-mails safely and efficiently with these tools.

59. Universal Inbox: This tool "gives you control over how you store your digital assets," including e-mail, files, Twitter messages and more.
60. AIR iPhone: This early-stage iPhone app manages contacts and the web browser.
61. TokBox: This video calling app is free to use.
62. GMDesk: Manage your Gmail account offline using this app.
63. AS iYahooCheck v2: Check your Yahoo ID status and your friends’ statuses with this app.
64. NEWZDOG: Stay connected to news updates with this searchable app.
65. Multilingual Soft Keyboards: This is a great tool for those who work internationally.
66. SimpleClass2: Teachers and students can check grades and stay connected wherever they are with SimpleClass2.
67. Pronto!: Pronto! is a secure interfact that includes IM, e-mail, groupware, voice and chat.
68. LG Phone: The Adobe AIR app for LG Phone lets you "call people from your Ribbit account."

Apps for Cubicle Dwellers

Adobe AIR is a fun platform for those who are stuck in their cubicles all day and want to waste time under the radar.

69. CrazyCam: This Adobe AIR app lets you turn regular photos into ridiculous images by playing around with 33 different effects.
70. dock_clock: Count the seconds until your workday ends with this clock.
71. StudioCloud Clothing Assistant: Play around with outfits and even send your saved looks to friends.
72. Pizza Hut: Privately order yourself a pizza from Pizza Hut.
73. FansBuzz Desktop: Catch up on football news with this app.
74. Fotobooth: Add effects to your webcam and play around with silly images with this app.

Time Management and Productivity

Below are a host of tools designed to boost your school or work productivity.

75. Remember the Milk Notifier: The Adobe AIR version of this web-based to-do list makes for maximum productivity.
76. AgileTracker: This easy-to-read app clearly displays task reports and time tracking charts. Agile Agenda users can sync up their task lists with this app too.
77. Doominow To-Do list: Check out this very easy to-do list manager.
78. Google Reader AIR app: Google Reader addicts work offline thanks to this app.
79. Snackr: Quickly browse your RSS feeds with this app, which pulls random items and runs them across your screen.
80. Desktop Alarm Clock Widget: This "unobtrusive" alarm clock can deliver messages automatically.
81. MiniTask: MiniTask is another simple to-do list manager for Adobe AIR.
82. RTM Notifier: This app automatically checks your Remember the Milk tasks and reminds you when deadlines approach.
83. JabeAbzar’S Clock: Stay on track when you download this analog desktop clock.
84. compuccino time track: This time tracker syncs up with Basecamp.

Apps That Make Your Life Easier

From a map app to a back up tool, these apps are designed to save you time and stress.

85. Websnapshot: Take snapshots of different web pages with this drag and drop tool, so you can work offline.
86. BackIt archive tool: Use this app to back up files and folders to a USB drive.
87. myHomeCache Visual Inventory: This offline home inventory software app is updated weekly.
88. JavaScript Quadratic Equation Calculator: If you need to solve quadratic equations, download this app to make things go faster.
89. PMT Mortgage Calculator: Use this app to help you organize your monthly payments to your mortgage.
90. EarthBrowser: EarthBrowser is similar to Google Earth. Click on different parts of the globe to retrieve data for that area.
91. WebKut: Cut screen shots and capture web pages to work offline.
92. Passpack Desktop: If you have trouble remembering all of your passwords, let this app manage them for you.
93. Net Cost to Buy: This app is another real estate tool that figures out your net cost per square feet for different commercial properties.
94. Oxy Reminder: This smart app reminds you to get up and stretch every 2 hours.

Managing Teams

These apps are great for team and business managers.

95. Timeslide: Add notifications into your apps whenever you post to your blog or a new IM pops up.
96. Employee Directory: Search for employee data and information on your desktop.
97. Salesbuilder: This app features data synchronization and direct chart manipulation.

Miscellaneous

These two apps round out our list of awesome Adobe AIR apps.

98. StockQ: Get stock quotes delivered to your desktop.
99. Netbook: Access the Project Gutenberg Library offline.

Posted in Office Tips, Productivity -- No Comments

By Megan Jones

Even if you like your job, or can at least put up with your job, you probably have those moments when you feel like taking up smoking just for an excuse to free yourself from cubicle fever for a few minutes. For the sake of your sanity (and health), we’re arming you with 100 fun, random, challenging and even educational and productive websites that will keep your mind engaged and distracted from your miserable nine to five.

Gaming

You don’t have to take your lunch break at Dave and Buster’s to enjoy a little game time during the day. Check out these sites to meet up with other players, play card games, arcade games and more.

1. OnlineFreeGaming.com: You’ll find arcade games, sports games, shooting practice, racing games and a lot more on this site.
2. Pogo.com: You’ll find traditional games like Chess and Bingo on this site, as well as arcades, card games, puzzles and more.
3. OnlineGames.net: From cooking games like Fish Fry and Food Memory to dress up games featuring couples and date-worthy outfits, this site has a lot to choose from.
4. Massive Online Gaming: Interact with other players on this site, which features games, panels and forums.
5. World of Warcraft: This immensely popular game allows you to play with other gamers.
6. MSN Games: For a slightly more subtle gaming experience, visit MSN’s site and switch back and forth to the news or main page when your boss walks by.
7. PlayStation: Online games from PlayStation include NBA Live09 and MaddenNFL09.
8. GamblingPlanet.org: Get into the world of online gambling, but be careful about office rules.
9. Pop Cap: Access free games or pay to download games on this site.
10. FreeArade.com: This site has more than just arcade games. You can also practice shooting, do puzzles, hook up with other players, get into strategy games and more.
11. The Office Solitaire: Flip cards to find faces of Jim, Dwight and your other Office allies.
12. OfficeGameSpot.com: Play free Flash games here to kill time at work.

Trivia

From traditional Greek mythology to obscure celebrities, test your knowledge with these trivia games and questions.

13. FunTrivia.com: Quiz categories include literature, movies, religion, people, sci/tech, sports, TV, video games, celebrities and more.
14. Thinks.com Trivia: Learn about Greek mythology, name derivations and opera composers when you play the trivia games on this site.
15. Celebrity Trivia Game About Obscure Celebrities: If you think you know a lot about celebrities, try this game.
16. Free Trivia Questions, Answers and Facts: Get answers to trivia questions about history, sports, birds, animals, science and travel.

Educational Sites

Just because you’re bored at work doesn’t mean that you aren’t craving some kind of intellectual stimulation. Visit these sites to learn something new that you actually care about.

17. Discovery GameCentral: Play games and watch videos on the Discovery Channel website to learn about history, the Earth, animals, crime and more.
18. Nobel Prize Educational Games: Some of these games are more for kids, but you’ll learn about science, economics and even nuclear weapons.
19. Library of Congress Digital Collections and Services: Access audio-visual materials and view online exhibitions from the Library of Congress without leaving your desk.
20. The History Channel: Watch videos, play games and even shop at History.com.
21. BBC: Listen to radio and watch BBC TV stations in different languages to get news from another perspective.

DIY, Arts and Crafts

Your boss might get a little suspicious if you whip out the construction paper and glue gun, but these online DIY projects and websites are very under-the-radar.

22. CafePress: Design your own t-shirts, pet items and promotional gifts here.
23. CraftMall.com: Buy and sell crafts on this site, from antiques to clocks to household items to clothing.
24. BobVila.com: Get a head start on your home improvement projects when you watch videos, read instructional guides, browse home plans and try out the 3D design tools from Bob Vila.
25. DIY Online: Become a member of this site to swap ideas with other members, ask questions, plan out your project and more.
26. smallblueprinter: Design blueprints for homes and gardens with the 3D tools offered here.
27. MyInteractiveGarden.com: This social media site features news, a plant list, advice for gardening, product reviews, multimedia and more.

TV

If you’re behind on your favorite shows, catch up at work by tuning into these online TV stations.

28. ABC: Watch full episodes of shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Jimmy Kimmel Live and Brothers and Sisters. ABC also hosts its own community and encourages viewers to send in questions and comments about news shows and more.
29. wwitv: Watch over 2800 channels on this site, via live shows or on-demand programming.
30. Beeline TV: Visit this site to access TV channels in Arabic, Catalan, Korean, Polish, Dutch and a lot more.
31. ChannelChooser: This online TV portal lets you pick categories like youth, music, information, games, sports, movies, reality and more, then directs you to different shows in that category.
32. PBS: Play games, participate in the community sections, watch videos and more on PBS.
33. Mediahopper.com: Watch TV streams from around the world here.

Virtual Worlds

Perfect for simulation and gaming, these virtual worlds can suck up your time like no other site can.

34. Dunder Mifflin: Visit the online division of Dunder Mifflin for games, missions and more.
35. SecondLife: Create your own virtual world to let off steam, learn something new or meet other individuals in a safe, creative space.
36. SimCity Societies: Become a member to build and manage your own city in SimCity.
37. Virtual MTV: Create your own avatar to play games and live the life of your favorite MTV characters and celebrities on VMTV.

Puzzles, Quizzes and Brain Teasers

Challenge yourself with Sudoku or the New York Times Crossword, and you’ll be glued to your screen all day long.

38. Cool Quiz: Do puzzles, answer trivia, and even make your own quizzes here.
39. Web Sudoku: Play the highly addictive game here, where you can adjust the difficulty level between easy, medium, hard and evil.
40. New York Times Crossword and Games: Subscribe to these crosswords or get one free crossword a week to give your brain a real workout.
41. Brainfall: You’ll soon be addicted to these fun quizzes about lifestyle, celebrities, love and relationships, and trivia.
42. 3SmartCubes: Is it time for a new job? A new boyfriend? Learn a little more about yourself when you take these quizzes.
43. Quibblo: Quibblo is a quiz network that lets you take and make quizzes, set up a profile and rate other quizzes.
44. Tickle: The Tickle network has loads of quizzes, from the frivolous to the insightful.
45. JigZone: Solve jigsaw puzzles here.
46. BrainBashers: You can find logic games, illusions, puzzles, Sudoku and other games on BrainBashers.
47. edHelper: Make your own puzzles with the tools at edHelper.

Music and Media

From uploading and marketing your own music to channeling your inner artiste, these interactive sites bring out your creative side and can help you relax.

48. YouTube: Film your office pranks and upload them to YouTube.
49. podsafe Music Network: Submit your own music, share tunes and listen to podcasts here.
50. Last.fm: This popular site lets you listen to songs for free (for a limited time), watch videos, browse events in your area and more.
51. Flickr: Mange your photos online to pass time at work or browse photos from other users for inspiration.
52. Flotones: This social site lets you browse songs, artists, reviews and albums, as well as submit your own tracks.
53. SnapPages: Edit pages, upload photos and manage events with this easy website creation tool.
54. Juke Box Alive: JBA lets you upload your own music and listen to other uploads and tunes for free.
55. Google Video: Browse videos or upload your own on Google’s video site.
56. Guitar Master: When your boss is out of the office, play Guitar Master (sort of like Guitar Hero) from this site.
57. ArtPad: Indulge in your own art therapy when you paint on ArtPad. You can also save your projects and browse others’ creations.
58. USTREAM: Watch shows and video streams then chat with other users on this interactive broadcasting site.

Business Tools

Since you’re already wearing a suit and sitting at a desk, why not work on your own business? These sites and tools are easy-to-use, interactive and fun.

59. Calculators, Planners and Worksheet: Fidelity’s toolkit looks professional, so you can trick your boss into thinking you’re doing real work.
60. Hoover Web Templates: Access business and personal website templates here to get started on your blog or personal business site.
61. FOX Business Tools: Manage your finances, learn about real estate, retirement and insurance savings and more with all of these tools.
62. Bplans.com: This site features over 500 sample business plans. Browse free plans for easy access.
63. Minority Business Development Agency Interactive Web Portal: The MBDA business development tools are free and include a new business checklist, e-commerce FAQ, and a lot more.

Open Content

Submit your own content to these sites to fuel the discussion or share your expertise with the public.

64. Wikipedia: When you’re really bored or out of work, set aside some time to edit Wikipedia entries or add a new one.
65. Open Clip Art Library: Create an account to submit your own art and access free-to-use projects.
66. Open-Site: Become a volunteer editor with this free encyclopedia to give you a chance to read and write about your favorite subjects.
67. Open Directory Project: Become an editor for the dmoz open directory project.
68. Open Source Movies: Upload your movies into this open database and watch videos made by others.
69. The WebKit Open Source Project: If you’re good at web development, you can contribute to this project, which evaluates website compatibility and manages an open source web browser engine.

Mindless but Amazing

When you’re really bored or fed up with your work, head to these totally mindless and random sites for games and more.

70. TV Land Red Carpet Date: Which TV Land character will you be matched up with when you play this game?
71. TicketStumbler: TicketStumbler isn’t totally mindless: it stumbles the Web to find the best deals on sports tickets for the NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA and NCAA football.
72. BaronBob: Get lost browsing or shopping for random gifts on this site, including gag gifts for the office.
73. Retroland: If you’re obsessed with retro anything, you’ll love playing around on this site, where you can watch videos, play games, read trivia and more.
74. iFoods.tv: Plan out what your dinner by browsing recipes, watching cooking videos and submitting your own.
75. Celebrity Plastic Surgery: If you need to distance yourself from the stress of your job for a few minutes, this is the way to do it. Match the celebrity to his or her old body part, before plastic surgery.

Trip Planners

Whether you’re planning a real vacation or just a fake trip to keep your spirits up while you’re at work, check out these interactive trip planners and guides

76. Tripadvisor: Play around with this site to submit reviews of hotels and other travel-related stuff. You can also talk with other travelers on the forum, submit photos and more.
77. Lonely Planet: The website edition of the guidebook series features a forum, blog, videos, photos, stories, tips and more.
78. Travellerspoint Travel Community: Head to the forums for real tips and advice from vacationers. You can also read travel blogs, browse photos and get information on hotels and hostels.
79. Virtual Tourist: This member-driven site includes travel guides for destinations around the world, so you can imagine yourself far away from the office grind.
80. Fodor’s: Plan your next trip at Fodors.com and visit the forums for tips from real travelers.
81. iGuide: This interactive map will show you photos and travel information for places like Chile, San Francisco, France, China, Spain and more.

Social Media

Social media is a fantastic way to waste time and forget your office existence. Try out these sites that will introduce you to people in your area, ask you to rate and review stories, manage and share your online interests and more.

82. Digg: Read, rate, review and submit news stories on Digg.
83. de.licio.us: This popular social bookmarking tool lets you submit your own stuff as well as review stories from other members.
84. Meetup: Join a club and plan a happy hour event or party while you’re still at work using Meetup.
85. Reddit: Reddit is another social ranking site that posts top news stories.
86. Ning: Invite co-workers, happy hour friends, family members or anyone else to become a member of your very own social media network hosted by Ning.
87. Facebook: Facebook is one of the ultimate social media networks that you can play around with for hours.
88. Adium: Adium isn’t exactly a social media outlet, but it promotes online connections through its instant messaging client.
89. StumbleUpon: Set up an account to share your favorite sites and videos and to rank web pages.
90. FriendFeed: Create an account to manage discussions and invite your friends to debate with you, share media and information and broaden your horizons.
91. yelp: Offer up your reviews of shopping, dining, lodging, health and beauty, and other services and products in your area and in many other cities. You can also browse others’ suggestions for advice on travel and things to do.
92. LinkedIn: A lot of business professionals make contact over LinkedIn, so you don’t have to feel so guilty spending your time here while you’re on the clock.

Dissing the Office

These websites may not take you out of the cube, but they’ll help you relieve some of the frustration of being stuck inside one all day.

93. Paintball Office: Trash your office the safe way by playing this game.
94. Voodoo Boss: Turn your boss into a voodoo doll with this online game.
95. Work Hate: Play around on this blog that’s dedicated to people who hate going to work.
96. Office Diversions: Submit an office diversion or play existing ones, like brain twisters, Google Maps Gone Wrong and more.

Taking Care of Business

Your business. Get ahead on errands and planning your weekend with these sites.

97. GasBuddy.com: Find the cheapest gas in your area by visiting this site. You can also sign up to be a gas spotter and submit stations with low prices.
98. Schmap!!: Map out your next shopping trip or plan a trip to another city using these interactive maps. Cities that have maps on Schmap!! include Montreal, Prague, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco and Vienna.
99. Ta-da Lists: Mange your to-do lists and shopping lists when you log on to this site.
100. Interactive Shopping List: ChefMom’s interactive grocery list lets you check items and make notes for each category. Categories include deli, dairy, bakery, frozen foods and more.

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Zoho’s Office Suite offers a virtual powerhouse of tools for business people, students, and casual users. With solutions for projects, invoicing, forms, and so much more, Zoho is truly a dynamic resource. Read on for a list of a number of different tips and resources for making this excellent asset even more useful.

Tips

Here you’ll find a variety of tips for making Zoho’s tools work better for your classes or projects.

1. Sign in with your Yahoo! or Google ID: You don’t need to create a new account to use Zoho-just use a Yahoo! or Google account that you may already have.
2. Add an interactive poll to your blog: Using Zoho Polls, you can put an interactive poll just about anywhere.
3. Keep track of document versions and history: Zoho Writer offers the feature of document versioning and history, so you can stay on top of how your documents evolve.
4. Switch between Zoho, Open Office, and Microsoft Office: Zoho offers compatibility with most popular office suites.
5. Use VBA macros in Zoho Sheet: Zoho Sheet offers the feature of Visual Basic scripting.
6. Keep track of actions with feeds: Stay on top of your Zoho documents, collaboration, and sharing by following your Zoho feeds.
7. Integrate between a number of different tools: One of the reasons Zoho is so wonderful is its collection of different tools that can all work together, so be sure you’re taking advantage of this feature.
8. Get reminders about pending tasks: Zoho has a feature that allows you to set reminders about tasks and milestones through your home page.
9. Embed interactive spreadsheets into HTML: With Zoho Sheets, you’ll be able to put an interactive spreadsheet in an HTML webpage.
10. Work offline: You can take Zoho offline, so you can do your work even when you don’t have an Internet connection.
11. Add comments: Allow discussions and collaborations on Zoho Writer documents by using the "Add Comment" feature.
12. Add a table of contents to your documents: Using special characters, you can create a table of contents in Zoho Writer.
13. Create and export timesheets: Zoho Project makes it easy to set up timesheets and export them in a variety of ways.
14. Create a useful web form: Zoho Creator’s WYSIWYG form designer offers lots of custom fields, including a file upload feature.
15. Directly email documents within Zoho: Zoho Writer offers a feature that allows you to email to different service providers like Yahoo!, Gmail, and MSN.
16. Efficiently track time: With the timesheet feature, tracking time in Zoho Projects is as easy as clicking on a clock.
17. Give a remote presentation: Zoho Show offers the option to give presentations in real-time using the Remote feature.
18. Offer trouble ticket support: Zoho CRM supports a web to case feature that you can embed into your website.
19. View tasks by dependency: The Dependency View feature on Zoho Projects makes it easy to sort your tasks by start date and S.No.
20. Integrate Zoho with your Central Document Repository: Using Zoho’s Remote API, you can automatically upload documents to your intranet’s central repository.
21. Create customized web links in Writer: You can add web links to Writer documents that can go to web pages, email messages, and more.
22. Be a power searcher: You can search your Zoho projects based on tags, file extensions, and more. Additionally, you can see image previews, thumbnails, and list views.
23. Use templates: Zoho Writer offers a variety of different pre loaded templates for job seekers, students, business people, and other users.
24. Convert files into .docx: Using Zoho, you can convert a variety of files into the new Word 2007 .docx format.
25. Customize email encoding: Zoho Projects has the option to change email encoding as well as time formats.
26. Create permalinked documents: Upload your documents to Zoho Viewer, and your document will be published at a web page address that can be shared, linked, and embedded. The feature also allows you to track how many times the document has been viewed.
27. Use task list templates: Zoho Projects has task list templates, so you can save time by reusing them for serveral different projects.
28. Embed objects in Writer: In Zoho Writer, you can embed slideshows, videos, spreadsheets, and more.
29. Back up your Google Docs on your local machine: Zoho offers a feature that will let you bring all of your Google Docs into Zoho, and subsequently mass export them into your local computer.
30. Monitor your used disk space: Zoho Projects makes it easy to find out exactly how much disk space you’re using for different projects.

Tools

Make use of these tools to make your Zoho experience even more productive and useful.

31. Plug-In for MS Office: With this plugin, you’ll be able to save your Office documents to Zoho, and vice versa.
32. Zoho QuickRead: Zoho QuickRead makes it easy to open documents and other files in Zoho while in your Firefox browser.
33. Huddle: Use this web based collaboration app to share your Zoho documents in a really organized and useful way.
34. iZoho: Get Zoho on your iPhone using Zoho Mobile.
35. Zoho Notebook Helper: Using this Firefox extension, you can aggregate content from the web and store it in your Zoho Notebook.
36. Open IT Online: The Open IT Online Firefox add on will allow you to open Zoho documents within your browser.
37. File Den: File Den integrates with Zoho, so you’ll be able to edit your documents within your File Den account.
38. Zoho Creator Mobile: Access your database apps from your mobile phone with this tool.
39. Zoho CRM Plugin for MS Outlook: Use this plugin with Outlook, and you’ll be able to integrate your email system with Zoho’s CRM tool.
40. Approver: You can embed a Zoho Show presentation into Approver.com documents.
41. G.ho.st: With this online operating system, you can use Zoho tools within the system, as well as get 3GB of free storage for your files.
42. Google Indic Transliteration: With this translation tool, you can translate text in Zoho within your Firefox browser.
43. Zoodle: Manage your Oodle real estate feed in Zoho Creator with this tool.
44. myDataBus: On myDataBus, you can edit documents within the system using Zoho.
45. Zoho Mobile: Use this mobile edition of Zoho on your Windows Mobile device.
46. Flixn: Use Flixn with Zoho to get audio and video recording capabilities in Zoho tools.
47. Kearen: Kearen makes it easy to use Zoho Sheet as data for their Dashboard application.
48. Zoho for Facebook: Use this Facebook app to have access to your Zoho files within Facebook.
49. EchoSign: Create your contracts, proposals, and other important documents in Zoho Writer, and get them digitally approved using EchoSign.
50. DigitalBucket: This online storage system makes it easy for you to open, edit, and save Zoho documents within their application.
51. OmniDrive: Using the Zoho API, OmniDrive offers integration with Zoho files.
52. Zoho QuickRead for Internet Explorer: If you’d like to be able to open Zoho files within Internet Explorer, be sure to download this extension.
53. Box.net: Through the OpenBox service on Box.net, you’ll be able to use Zoho files within the Box.net system.
54. Zoho Storage API: Use Zoho’s Storage API to manipulate data in different Zoho services.
55. Zoho Remote API: Using Zoho’s Remote API, you’ll be able to use Zoho services within third party applications.
56. RunMyProcess: RunMyProcess offers Zoho integration for easy workflow and functionality.
57. BubblesHQ: BubblesHQ will take your browser-based Zoho tools and make them perform more like a desktop application.
58. eyeOS: This online desktop system easily integrates with the Zoho suite of tools.
59. SteekR: Using SteekR, you can edit Zoho Writer documents and save them to your SteekR drive.
60. Zoho Docs: If you’ve found that you have a hard time keeping track of all of your Zoho files, get them organized in Zoho Docs.
61. Entrepreneur Assist: These tools from Entrepreneur are powered by Zoho and will work with the tools in the Zoho suite.
62. Syncplicity: Syncplicity allows you to synchronize your Zoho documents between your desktop and their web application.

Resources

These are excellent resources for finding tips, tricks, and even more resources relating to Zoho tools.

63. Zoho Forums: Zoho has an active forum for tips, tricks, and more related to the Zoho suite.
64. Keyboard shortcuts available in Zoho Writer: This resource offers a list of keyboard shortcuts that you can use to make your work in Zoho Writer easier.
65. Zoho Wiki Tips & Tricks: This wiki explains embedding, removing links, and more.
66. Zoho Blogs: On Zoho’s blogs, you’ll find lots of helpful information for using their tools.
67. Zoho Small Business Tips & Tricks: Here you’ll find a few hints for making Zoho Small Business work better.

Tutorials

These tutorials offer detailed explanations of how you can make use of Zoho’s many features.

68. Sharing Options in Zoho: Follow this tutorial to find out how to share options through Zoho.
69. Zoho Writer Goes Offline-Video Tutorial: Here you’ll learn how to access and edit your Zoho Writer documents offline.
70. Export/Backup Options in Zoho: Learn how to back up and export your Zoho Office data in a variety of different tools with this resource.
71. Provide Remote Assistance with Zoho Meeting: Using Zoho Meeting, you can troubleshoot a problem remotely.
72. Project and CRM workaround: Here you’ll learn how to use a workaround for Project Management & CRM.
73. Zoho Writer Tutorial: This tutorial will explain the important features of Zoho Writer.
74. How to make a custom quotation: Here you’ll learn a variety of tricks for customizing Zoho CRM quotations.
75. Setting up Task Dependency: This tutorial offers directions for setting up task dependency in Zoho Small Business.
76. How to print envelope labels from Zoho CRM: Find out how to take advantage of Zoho CRM’s ability to print directly from the Contacts view.
77. Managing Leads by Product Report: This Zoho CRM tutorial will explain organization based on product reports.
78. Zoho Projects: Change Logo and Powered By Logo: Better brand your Zoho Projects workspace by adding your own logo.
79. Cloning or duplicating an invoice: This guide offers a way to duplicate invoices easily.
80. Shortcut to add user to an Organization: Follow this quick tutorial to find out how to quickly add a user to an organization in Zoho Projects.
81. Managing Dashboard Folders: This tutorial will explain how to manage dashboard folders with access privileges.
82. Tutorial: How to create a password dialog: Password protect the editing of records in Zoho Creator using this simple method.
83. Zoho Business Tutorial: This video explains some of the most important points of Zoho Business.
84. How to add your company logo in print layouts: You can embed your logo in printable views of quotes and other documents using the detail in this guide.
85. How to schedule leads: Learn about scheduling leads for follow up with this useful guide.
86. Zoho Wiki Tutorial: This presentaton offers a good explanation for using Zoho Wiki.
87. Insert Custom Stylesheets in Writer Document: With this tutorial, you’ll learn how to add CSS to your documents.
88. How to customize Zoho Wiki’s navigation bar and sidebar: This tutorial explains how to change Zoho Wiki’s CSS to customize your wiki’s bars.
89. Zoho CRM Home Page Customization: This video explains how you can customize your Zoho CRM home page.
90. Linking to other Zoho products from the wiki: This tutorial discusses embedding Zoho elements into Zoho Wiki.
91. Can Projects be Re-Arranged?: Learn how to reorder your Zoho Projects with this tutorial.
92. Tutorial: How to create a password dialog: This tutorial will show you how to password protect editing of records in Zoho Creator.

Articles

These articles provide insightful thoughts about making use of Zoho tools for school or work.

93. Sharing PowerPoint Presenatations on the Web: Can Zoho Show Take on Slideshare?: Check out this guide to learn about some of the good and bad features of Zoho Show.
94. Uses of Zoho Creator: This article explains how you can put Zoho Creator to work for you.
95. Zoho Writer’s New Features Trump Other Online Word Processors: Find out why Zoho Writer is a superior tool in this article.
96. Archiving a Project: Here you’ll learn how to archive a project for long term preservation and future reference.
97. How Zoho Creator Can Help My On and Offline Business: Read this article to find out how you can put Zoho to work for your business.
98. Zoho People: Manage Your Company’s HR Needs from the Web: This article explains the appeal behind one of Zoho’s newest tools, Zoho People.
99. Creativity in Communication: This article explains how you can use Zoho CRM to better communicate with your customers.
100. Zoho Notebook vs OneNote and Google Notebook: Find out how Zoho Notebook stacks up against the competition with this guide.

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