QuietWrite.com

QuietWrite (QW) is a distraction free writing tool that allows the user compose without the interference of interfaces, widgets, tabs, or whatever else may distract the writer from his or her duty at hand.  With a calm, blue background QW facilitates creativity and reflection.

One added bonus of QW is the ability to export entries to Wordpress.  This feature eliminates the hassle of saving, copying and pasting, and reformatting the entry.  For publishing to Wordpress, entries are automatically formatted, so no HTML is needed, unless the user wishes to include links, pictures or other media.  I would like to see QuietWrite to be able to export to other blog sites, such as Livejournal or Blogspot, perhaps using the OpenID system.  QW is also accessible by iPad, making it friendly to mobile

users.

Entries in QW are by default public and anonymous, and other users are able to comment on the entries, lending to a collaborative, or even stand-alone blog feel.  As with any journaling service, QW offers the option to privatize entries and moderate or eliminate comments.  

Typing into the interface is easy, and entries are autosaved every few seconds.    Users are also allowed to manually save, with a control + S command.  If for some reason, the writer needs to leave the website, the entry is saved without being published, and can be returned to at a later time.

The user interface is friendly, attractive, and intuitive. At the top of the screen is a small toolbar with buttons, enabling the user to view revisions, preview, publish, and export his or her entries.  A writer can also surf entries made by other users, commenting and offering input into the other journals.

While QW is a blessing in media-rich internet, the user should never use the system as the be-all-end-all of publishing.  Rather, it is best utilized as a method of getting original ideas down, for revision at a later time. Overall,  QuietWrite is a great springboard for ideas and motivation.