We’ve all sat down in front of our computers with good intentions. However, getting work done can be tricky with the whole internet calling.

So I have a secret weapon to help you focus … and it’s called the Start Page.It’s a simple idea, start your web browser with all the sites and info you waste time surfing for. Review them in a matter of minutes and then get on with your work …

Well that’s the theory, the practice is up to you. Good design and clever user interfaces make some of these more successful than others. But they’re all worth a look.

Symbaloo

Looking oh so Web 2.0 … Symbaloo … makes for a very organised SP. A simple grid design with colour coded icons. There’s loads of room for all your favourites and it’s easy to customise.

Protopage

Position important sites and widgets anywhere on the page, that’s the USP of … Protopage … there’s also a neat tab feature giving you extra flexibility.

Schmedley

Maybe a little early for this one … Schmedley … is still in invite only stage, but looks promising.

FlashHomePage

Some very interesting ideas and style here … FlashHomePage … is another SP that has that 2.0 feel. There’s also a nice simple startup procedure to get you going.

Speed Dial

I’m a big fan of Firefox, so my start page of choice had to be … Speed Dial … install like a normal plugin and away you go. I particularly liked that it grabs live thumbnails from your favourites and there’s several customise options.

iloggo

Maybe not as flash or slick as the other sites … iloggo … still does the job. I also like that it’s online so I can access it on any web enabled device in any location. Several of these SP sites do that so it’s not unique … bit i like it’s design too.

Zoomstr

It’s a little off brief but … Zoomstr … is all about getting you to were you are going, so i think it’s worth a look.

Tags: doc rogers, Internet, productivity, start pages