The If Then statement is one of the most powerful tools. We use it in Excel to create formulas that perform a calculation if a certain set of conditions apply. We also create an If Then for our email to apply rules.
If This Then That, or IFTTT, is another great web service that uses that basic premise to integrate most major web service such as social networks, cloud storage, and others. For example, I currently have a “recipe” setup to monitor my WordPress blog for any new posts. If there’s a new post, then it will create a link and summary on my Daniel Hoang Facebook fan page. IFTTT tracks the number of triggers that executes and logs them.
Computers are amazing at performing repetitious activities nearly perfect to the specs provided by the user. In this case, as long as I get my recipe right, IFTTT will always pull the data and perform the action. Just like email rules, the most precise you are, the more automated your routine actions will be. By automating your routine actions, you can manage by exception.
