Google Docs and iOS

We here at Safernets have come to rely on Google Docs as a family. It is an amazing tool for collaboration. If you are unfamiliar with Google Docs, it is similar to Microsoft Office. There is a spreadsheet program and a word processor. Both are much simpler than MS Office, and both are web-based programs.

These programs are what my professors at Texas A&M kept telling us the web would be someday. It took 15 years, but we are finally there: complete group collaboration on web-based software.

And now, these programs also work reliably well on iOS and Androids.

For example: We have a family grocery list document in Google Docs. It is shared between all members of the family. When we run out of ketchup, my son can whip out an iPhone and quickly add ketchup to the family grocery list. When the shopping happens, we have a current and complete list that we can view and even edit on the go.

If you spend any time using Google Docs on your iPhone, I highly recommend the $1 app called G-Whizz (website). This app is far better than the built-in web browser or even than the google mobile app for google applications.

Lego Universe

Thanks to a very generous grandparent, the MokiKids have been enjoying the new MMO Lego Universe for a few weeks now.

Here are some notes that parents might want to know, especially parents of multiple kids.

Account information

The disc which comes with Lego Universe has a code that will unlock exactly one account. The disc can be installed on multiple computers. However, a Lego Universe account can only be logged in to one computer at a time.

Each account has four customizable minifigs (characters). In theory you can have four different kids play on one account. However, they can only play one at a time.

If you want to have two players play at the same time, it will require a second purchase of the Lego Universe game and a second account. Tip: Lego Shop@Home currently has this disc for only $10. Sadly, we have not found a discount for the subscription service

Each disc comes with a 30-day free trial.

Parental Controls

As with most software, it's best to use your parent's admin account to install the software for the first time. Also, make sure you run the program for the first time from the parent's admin account. It has to download a ton of patches and takes quite a while.

If you are blocking all websites except for a list of allowable sites, you will need to add a few servers to the kids' allowed website list:
www.lego.com
universe.lego.com
www.legouniverse.com
cache.legouniverse.com

Also note: it requires 10G of space. Make room.