I’m just starting to experiment with Expression Web 3 as a site editor (specifically for editing PHP, CSS and Javascript files) and the first stumbling block was how to set it up so that I can edit my remote files directly without having to create a local version. This is necessary because I don’t have PHP/MySQL and Apache installed on my Windows machine.

Despite the fact that this doesn’t appear to be mentioned in the application help, it’s actually very simple. Just go to File, Open and, in the address bar, type your FTP address. You’ll then be prompted to type in your login details and, assuming this has worked successfully, you’ll then be presented with an Explorer view of your site from which you can pick your file. Simple.

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Sage and I go way back. I have lost count of the number of times I’ve almost chucked my PC through a window as I get unbelievably frustrated with the arcane and labyrinthine way in which it works. It’s an example of a piece of software that, through its utter ineptness, has fostered an entire industry of people who actually understand how it works.

So it was with trepidation and not a little cyncism that I tried FreeAgent which claims to be an online accounting solution for Freelances and Small Businesses. What a revelation. Not only is the process of keeping the books up to date childishly simple (upload your bank statements and tell FreeAgent about any entries it doesn’t recognise: it gets cleverer and cleverer as it learns your transactions) but so is invoicing and all the other routine processes.

Perhaps most usefully it also keeps a running total of your VAT liability and lets you know exactly when the various documents are due to be filed thus saving you money on potential fines.

The only issue might be whether you accountant will accept the output from FreeAgent (CSV in the main). Mine is ok with it so if yours isn’t I suggest you fire their arse!

FreeAgent is simply the best Web Application I’ve seen since BaseCamp came out. One of those rare examples where a web application really does revolutionise an otherwise onerous job. FreeAgent is being constantly updated with new features and is heartily recommended. And no, I’m not taking any backhanders!

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