his brand-new Apple-certified guide, reconceived for Logic's new interface, uses all-new projects and media files to show you how to record, produce, and polish your musical creations with Apple's professional audio software. Veteran audio producer David Nahmani uses step-by-step, project-based instruction and straightforward explanations to teach everything from basic music creation to advanced production techniques.Using the book's DVD files and either Logic Pro 8 or Logic Express 8, you'll begin making music in the first lesson. From there, you'll learn to record audio and MIDI, edit sequences, master mixing techniques, and use Logic's software synthesizers, sampler, and digital signal processors to put the perfect aural polish on your audio creations. A special troubleshooting section helps you set up and optimize your studio and Logic system effectively. Whether you're looking to use your computer as a digital recording studio, create musical compositions and cutting-edge surround-sound mixes, or transfer that song in your head into living music, this comprehensive book/DVD combo will show you how.

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Keeps coming back, again and again, 05 Nov 2008
This is an excellent book that I keep coming back to again and again. It explains a variety of complex machine learning algorithms with easy to follow, clear, concise code. The only bad word I've heard about this book is that occasionally it would be useful to see the algorithms as equations as well as code, I didn't find that a problem at all though.

Very Useful, 22 Oct 2008
I was a beginner in both python and general programming when I got this book together with a book on how to use Python in general.

I actually found this book more useful than the general Python book as the use of examples is a much better way of learning (in my opinion). The examples introduced get more and more complex through the book which then forces you to learn about those programs in order to understand what they've done.

The fact that it exposes you to live web based data from the beginning is very useful indeed. My only wish would be that the formatting would be a bit clear. Python seems to thrive on using indentation rather than brackets and it can be difficult to see exactly which level of indentation is being used.

You need a ruler to use it!

very good introduction, 11 Sep 2008
This book really does an awesome job at guiding you through the process of using collective intelligence in your own applications. For me, a bit more explanation on the math would be nice, but if i just pay attention it still seems to stick, so it's not crucial.
just, well, get it! it's good

Pete

A truly outstanding book, 29 Mar 2008
This book is definitely worth having on your bookshelf. It breaks down one of the most complex and demanding subjects into delightful, succinct and digestible pieces.

Having dredged my way through similar books in the past, I wasn't expecting too much, but Programming Collective Intelligence is remarkable. I found this book gripping; completing each example was very rewarding, and has now got me hooked on learning more.

I ended up working my way through the entire book, and really feel that it was time well spent. I now feel that I actually understand the concepts and algorithms surrounding machine learning/AI/data mining, and as a bonus have become familiar with a huge number of web 2.0 APIs.

The source code is almost impeccable. Most programming books falter on sloppy and/or incomplete code, but Programming Collective Intelligence is well explained and has the complete Python code written in the book, as well as being available for download. I was able to do every example without any major problems, despite having never used the Python language before.

Well written & diagrammed, with good examples and wonderful explanations: this a fantastic book, and to be highly recommended.

excellent - accessible machine learning, 04 Dec 2007
This is excellent - forget the marketing rubbish about making better web 2.0 apps: It is all about machine learning - the science of how Amazon and others can make recommendations based on the ordering patterns of others.

The difference between it and other texts on this machine learning, is how accessible it is, and how apt the data sets it chooses are. Machine learning is an active area of research, and I was surprised that this book even covers kernel methods.

It generates a real appetite to learn more about the theory of machine learning: Which you will need, as most machine learning text books are mathematically tough going and dry.

I only wish I could skip the day job for a week and study this book from cover to cover.

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Keeps coming back, again and again, 05 Nov 2008
This is an excellent book that I keep coming back to again and again. It explains a variety of complex machine learning algorithms with easy to follow, clear, concise code. The only bad word I've heard about this book is that occasionally it would be useful to see the algorithms as equations as well as code, I didn't find that a problem at all though.

Very Useful, 22 Oct 2008
I was a beginner in both python and general programming when I got this book together with a book on how to use Python in general.

I actually found this book more useful than the general Python book as the use of examples is a much better way of learning (in my opinion). The examples introduced get more and more complex through the book which then forces you to learn about those programs in order to understand what they've done.

The fact that it exposes you to live web based data from the beginning is very useful indeed. My only wish would be that the formatting would be a bit clear. Python seems to thrive on using indentation rather than brackets and it can be difficult to see exactly which level of indentation is being used.

You need a ruler to use it!

very good introduction, 11 Sep 2008
This book really does an awesome job at guiding you through the process of using collective intelligence in your own applications. For me, a bit more explanation on the math would be nice, but if i just pay attention it still seems to stick, so it's not crucial.
just, well, get it! it's good

Pete

A truly outstanding book, 29 Mar 2008
This book is definitely worth having on your bookshelf. It breaks down one of the most complex and demanding subjects into delightful, succinct and digestible pieces.

Having dredged my way through similar books in the past, I wasn't expecting too much, but Programming Collective Intelligence is remarkable. I found this book gripping; completing each example was very rewarding, and has now got me hooked on learning more.

I ended up working my way through the entire book, and really feel that it was time well spent. I now feel that I actually understand the concepts and algorithms surrounding machine learning/AI/data mining, and as a bonus have become familiar with a huge number of web 2.0 APIs.

The source code is almost impeccable. Most programming books falter on sloppy and/or incomplete code, but Programming Collective Intelligence is well explained and has the complete Python code written in the book, as well as being available for download. I was able to do every example without any major problems, despite having never used the Python language before.

Well written & diagrammed, with good examples and wonderful explanations: this a fantastic book, and to be highly recommended.

excellent - accessible machine learning, 04 Dec 2007
This is excellent - forget the marketing rubbish about making better web 2.0 apps: It is all about machine learning - the science of how Amazon and others can make recommendations based on the ordering patterns of others.

The difference between it and other texts on this machine learning, is how accessible it is, and how apt the data sets it chooses are. Machine learning is an active area of research, and I was surprised that this book even covers kernel methods.

It generates a real appetite to learn more about the theory of machine learning: Which you will need, as most machine learning text books are mathematically tough going and dry.

I only wish I could skip the day job for a week and study this book from cover to cover.

Detailed and Relevant, 17 Jul 2008
If you are working in online marketing and not taking web analytics seriously then it's time to do so. Brian's book is a good way to get started with one of the most popular, and cost effective (it's free), web analytics solutions around.

The book reflects Brian's extensive knowledge of the Google Analytics package and provides clear and practical techniques for using the product. It is useful either as self study material or as part of a more formal training course and something I would certainly recommend to delegates attending our own Google Analytics classes.

Highly Recommended, 18 May 2008
I've been running Google Analytics on a number of web sites since it was first released in 2005. I've got a lot of good information out of it, but I've always suspected that I'm not using it to its full potential. Having read this book I now have a much better idea of what I'm missing and, more importantly, how I can put that right.

Brian Clifton has written a really useful guide to getting the most benefit out of Google's free web analytics system. He is, of course, well-placed to do that as he leads the Google Analytics team for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Part one is a good overview of web analytics is. Chapter one explains what web analytics is and what you can get out of it. Chapter two goes into more detail about the method that people use to analyse their web site traffic and chapter three introduces Google Analytics and explains where it fits into the web analytics landscape.

Part two gives an introduction to using Google Analytics. Chapter four looks at the interface to Google Analytics. This chapter gives the reader a good free for the interactivity of the Google Analytics interface. It's this interactivity that makes Google Analytics far easier to use than many of its competitors. Chapter five looks in more depth at ten of the reports that the system generates. By the end of this chapter I was already learning new little tips about the system.

Part three is about implementing Google Analytics on your web site. chapter six shows you how to tag your web pages so they are included in your reports. This is about as far as my Google Analytics knowledge goes. So chapter seven introduces ways to customise the Google Javascript code in order to have more control over what data is recorded, it was all new (and very interesting). For example, the chapter has techniques for measuring page load time and tracking outgoing links. Chapter eight is all about Google Analytics best practices and is full of the kinds of tips that only an expert in using the tool would be able to share with you. Having read this chapter I configured up some of my sites to track search queries and set up more goals on my sites. Chapter nine is called "Google Analytics Hacks" and is a really useful cookbook of tips and techniques for getting even more out of Google Analytics. Top of my list of things to implement from this chapter is to add tracking to all of my error pages.

The sections we've discussed so far have all been about generating as much useful data about your web site traffic as possible. But, of course, huge piles of data don't do you any good at all unless you can make some sense of the data and then act on your findings. This is what part four is about. Chapter ten offers some useful hints on how to make sense of all of the data you have collected. Clifton looks at a web site from a number of points of view (sales, marketing, web content creator and webmaster) and for each of them suggests a number of key performance indicators that will be of interest to them. He then shows how to construct these KPIs out of the data that Google Analytics has captured. Chapter eleven moves on to the next stage and looks a number of real-world examples where data from Google Analytics can be used to identify poor performance from areas of a web site and suggests ways to improve matters.

I'm no web analytics expert and, to be honest, some of the stuff in part four made my eyes glaze over a little. But my company doesn't rely on its web site for income so I've never had to worry about the number of visitors I get or how long they spend on the site. Web analytics has really just been a hobby for me. If I was in a company where those kinds of things were important, then I feel confident that this book would be the right one to turn to in order to learn more. This book certainly goes into more depth when talking about both the technical side of Google Analytics and how to interpret the data than any other book I've read on the subject.

This book has taught me a lot of new and interesting things about Google Analytics and I feel sure that I'll be going back to it in the future when I need to know more. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to get the most out of their Google Analytics installation.

A book providing instant ROI, 29 Apr 2008
It only took me three evenings to read this book. This book is catchy, it has coherency and is very well written. It contains numerous tips and has a lot of clarifying images.

Don't expect the full story about web analytics and how to interpret figures and metrics provided by Google Analytics. And I guess this wasn't the true purpose of the book. Web Analytics is quite difficult. It can't be explained on paper.

But you can surely expect an excellent in-depth overview of Google Analytics and how to properly collect and find actionable data in the generated reports.

After a first reading, this book remains highly valuable. I'm sure I will use it a lot as a reference book (with a handy index). Therefore, I suggest a hard cover for the next issue. A special edition for the fans?

If you're interested in the measurement side of online marketing, this book is highly advised. I've you like to learn more, if not everything about the Web Analytics power tool of Google, this book is a must read. You will not regret it.

It is a recipe for a growing enthusiasm for Google Analytics and Web Analytics. Brian Clifton gives you a long enduring ROI with his book. Five thumbs up for that!

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Keeps coming back, again and again, 05 Nov 2008
This is an excellent book that I keep coming back to again and again. It explains a variety of complex machine learning algorithms with easy to follow, clear, concise code. The only bad word I've heard about this book is that occasionally it would be useful to see the algorithms as equations as well as code, I didn't find that a problem at all though.

Very Useful, 22 Oct 2008
I was a beginner in both python and general programming when I got this book together with a book on how to use Python in general.

I actually found this book more useful than the general Python book as the use of examples is a much better way of learning (in my opinion). The examples introduced get more and more complex through the book which then forces you to learn about those programs in order to understand what they've done.

The fact that it exposes you to live web based data from the beginning is very useful indeed. My only wish would be that the formatting would be a bit clear. Python seems to thrive on using indentation rather than brackets and it can be difficult to see exactly which level of indentation is being used.

You need a ruler to use it!

very good introduction, 11 Sep 2008
This book really does an awesome job at guiding you through the process of using collective intelligence in your own applications. For me, a bit more explanation on the math would be nice, but if i just pay attention it still seems to stick, so it's not crucial.
just, well, get it! it's good

Pete

A truly outstanding book, 29 Mar 2008
This book is definitely worth having on your bookshelf. It breaks down one of the most complex and demanding subjects into delightful, succinct and digestible pieces.

Having dredged my way through similar books in the past, I wasn't expecting too much, but Programming Collective Intelligence is remarkable. I found this book gripping; completing each example was very rewarding, and has now got me hooked on learning more.

I ended up working my way through the entire book, and really feel that it was time well spent. I now feel that I actually understand the concepts and algorithms surrounding machine learning/AI/data mining, and as a bonus have become familiar with a huge number of web 2.0 APIs.

The source code is almost impeccable. Most programming books falter on sloppy and/or incomplete code, but Programming Collective Intelligence is well explained and has the complete Python code written in the book, as well as being available for download. I was able to do every example without any major problems, despite having never used the Python language before.

Well written & diagrammed, with good examples and wonderful explanations: this a fantastic book, and to be highly recommended.

excellent - accessible machine learning, 04 Dec 2007
This is excellent - forget the marketing rubbish about making better web 2.0 apps: It is all about machine learning - the science of how Amazon and others can make recommendations based on the ordering patterns of others.

The difference between it and other texts on this machine learning, is how accessible it is, and how apt the data sets it chooses are. Machine learning is an active area of research, and I was surprised that this book even covers kernel methods.

It generates a real appetite to learn more about the theory of machine learning: Which you will need, as most machine learning text books are mathematically tough going and dry.

I only wish I could skip the day job for a week and study this book from cover to cover.

Detailed and Relevant, 17 Jul 2008
If you are working in online marketing and not taking web analytics seriously then it's time to do so. Brian's book is a good way to get started with one of the most popular, and cost effective (it's free), web analytics solutions around.

The book reflects Brian's extensive knowledge of the Google Analytics package and provides clear and practical techniques for using the product. It is useful either as self study material or as part of a more formal training course and something I would certainly recommend to delegates attending our own Google Analytics classes.

Highly Recommended, 18 May 2008
I've been running Google Analytics on a number of web sites since it was first released in 2005. I've got a lot of good information out of it, but I've always suspected that I'm not using it to its full potential. Having read this book I now have a much better idea of what I'm missing and, more importantly, how I can put that right.

Brian Clifton has written a really useful guide to getting the most benefit out of Google's free web analytics system. He is, of course, well-placed to do that as he leads the Google Analytics team for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Part one is a good overview of web analytics is. Chapter one explains what web analytics is and what you can get out of it. Chapter two goes into more detail about the method that people use to analyse their web site traffic and chapter three introduces Google Analytics and explains where it fits into the web analytics landscape.

Part two gives an introduction to using Google Analytics. Chapter four looks at the interface to Google Analytics. This chapter gives the reader a good free for the interactivity of the Google Analytics interface. It's this interactivity that makes Google Analytics far easier to use than many of its competitors. Chapter five looks in more depth at ten of the reports that the system generates. By the end of this chapter I was already learning new little tips about the system.

Part three is about implementing Google Analytics on your web site. chapter six shows you how to tag your web pages so they are included in your reports. This is about as far as my Google Analytics knowledge goes. So chapter seven introduces ways to customise the Google Javascript code in order to have more control over what data is recorded, it was all new (and very interesting). For example, the chapter has techniques for measuring page load time and tracking outgoing links. Chapter eight is all about Google Analytics best practices and is full of the kinds of tips that only an expert in using the tool would be able to share with you. Having read this chapter I configured up some of my sites to track search queries and set up more goals on my sites. Chapter nine is called "Google Analytics Hacks" and is a really useful cookbook of tips and techniques for getting even more out of Google Analytics. Top of my list of things to implement from this chapter is to add tracking to all of my error pages.

The sections we've discussed so far have all been about generating as much useful data about your web site traffic as possible. But, of course, huge piles of data don't do you any good at all unless you can make some sense of the data and then act on your findings. This is what part four is about. Chapter ten offers some useful hints on how to make sense of all of the data you have collected. Clifton looks at a web site from a number of points of view (sales, marketing, web content creator and webmaster) and for each of them suggests a number of key performance indicators that will be of interest to them. He then shows how to construct these KPIs out of the data that Google Analytics has captured. Chapter eleven moves on to the next stage and looks a number of real-world examples where data from Google Analytics can be used to identify poor performance from areas of a web site and suggests ways to improve matters.

I'm no web analytics expert and, to be honest, some of the stuff in part four made my eyes glaze over a little. But my company doesn't rely on its web site for income so I've never had to worry about the number of visitors I get or how long they spend on the site. Web analytics has really just been a hobby for me. If I was in a company where those kinds of things were important, then I feel confident that this book would be the right one to turn to in order to learn more. This book certainly goes into more depth when talking about both the technical side of Google Analytics and how to interpret the data than any other book I've read on the subject.

This book has taught me a lot of new and interesting things about Google Analytics and I feel sure that I'll be going back to it in the future when I need to know more. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to get the most out of their Google Analytics installation.

A book providing instant ROI, 29 Apr 2008
It only took me three evenings to read this book. This book is catchy, it has coherency and is very well written. It contains numerous tips and has a lot of clarifying images.

Don't expect the full story about web analytics and how to interpret figures and metrics provided by Google Analytics. And I guess this wasn't the true purpose of the book. Web Analytics is quite difficult. It can't be explained on paper.

But you can surely expect an excellent in-depth overview of Google Analytics and how to properly collect and find actionable data in the generated reports.

After a first reading, this book remains highly valuable. I'm sure I will use it a lot as a reference book (with a handy index). Therefore, I suggest a hard cover for the next issue. A special edition for the fans?

If you're interested in the measurement side of online marketing, this book is highly advised. I've you like to learn more, if not everything about the Web Analytics power tool of Google, this book is a must read. You will not regret it.

It is a recipe for a growing enthusiasm for Google Analytics and Web Analytics. Brian Clifton gives you a long enduring ROI with his book. Five thumbs up for that!


Excellent. Thought-provoking., 18 May 2008
A very well presented, and extremely well researched effort. Everyone should read this. One star deducted jointly for the shameless (and frequent) promotion of the author's other works, and the sometimes unnecessarily long-winded passages in the book - its still very well done, but this is my own opinion.

I strongly recommend this book, very hard to put down.

Contains some wonderful ideas., 30 Apr 2008
For those of you who don't know, Ray Kurzweil is the man who invented Optical Character Recognition, along with various other pattern-recognition technologies. He is well-versed in what technology is theoretically capable of, and has spent his professional life trying to make it do these things.

I have nothing but good things to say about Ray Kurzweil, and this book in particular. The ideas that he puts forward may seem very optimistic, sometimes verging on techno-fanaticism, but nothing he is saying is negative. If he's right, the human race only has to survive until the 2040s and things will markedly improve.

However excellent I found the technological predictions made in this book, there are two points that brought it down to four stars. First, and a matter I admit is one of personal preference, there were far too many graphs to do with economy and business. This is an American book, so capitalism has to figure somewhere, and he is forgiven. The other point is that some of the speculations he is making are sociological ones and these are far more spurious than any technological speculations. However, they are not fundamental to what he is arguing.

All in all, an excellent, if at times overwhelming, read. I heartily recommend it as an introduction to transhumanism and futurism.

Revelatory, 21 Mar 2008
I discovered this book a couple of years ago. There was a sale at Waterstone's, and I had all but one of the books needed to take advantage of said sale. This took my interest, so I got a hold of it, and thank goodness I did.

I can honestly say that this is the most important non-fiction book I have ever read, and quite possibly one of the most important books period. Whilst I have always sensed something important might be taking place regarding technology, and I have always had a deep love of science and technology, Kurzweil highlights and articulates some incredible and illustrative concepts. I don't agree with everything he says, but the fundaments of the book seem entirely solid. Sometimes this terrifies me, but Kurzweil offers a great deal of hope as well.

Whether you embrace or reject the implications, however, Kurzweil's book makes an extremely imposing case that I have yet to see refuted. Reading it will prepare you for the future, whether that future looks glorious or horrifying to you.

Awesome book, 24 Jan 2008
My heart sank when I got this book. An American book on science that had that many pages must be written by someone who got paid by how many times they were able to repeat themselves. This has been my experience with books much thinner than this. Yet I was quite wrong. There is very little repetition and it is all appropriate. The book is very well written with careful attention given to the order in which ideas are presented. It is an astonishingly wide ranging book and essential reading for anyone who is interested in where technology is taking us. How the author found time to write it, along with perfoming all his other duties beats me. He must be one hell of a guy!
The only thing I take issue with him on, is... no I won't spoil it for you! You can make up your own mind. Just read it!

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Keeps coming back, again and again, 05 Nov 2008
This is an excellent book that I keep coming back to again and again. It explains a variety of complex machine learning algorithms with easy to follow, clear, concise code. The only bad word I've heard about this book is that occasionally it would be useful to see the algorithms as equations as well as code, I didn't find that a problem at all though.

Very Useful, 22 Oct 2008
I was a beginner in both python and general programming when I got this book together with a book on how to use Python in general.

I actually found this book more useful than the general Python book as the use of examples is a much better way of learning (in my opinion). The examples introduced get more and more complex through the book which then forces you to learn about those programs in order to understand what they've done.

The fact that it exposes you to live web based data from the beginning is very useful indeed. My only wish would be that the formatting would be a bit clear. Python seems to thrive on using indentation rather than brackets and it can be difficult to see exactly which level of indentation is being used.

You need a ruler to use it!

very good introduction, 11 Sep 2008
This book really does an awesome job at guiding you through the process of using collective intelligence in your own applications. For me, a bit more explanation on the math would be nice, but if i just pay attention it still seems to stick, so it's not crucial.
just, well, get it! it's good

Pete

A truly outstanding book, 29 Mar 2008
This book is definitely worth having on your bookshelf. It breaks down one of the most complex and demanding subjects into delightful, succinct and digestible pieces.

Having dredged my way through similar books in the past, I wasn't expecting too much, but Programming Collective Intelligence is remarkable. I found this book gripping; completing each example was very rewarding, and has now got me hooked on learning more.

I ended up working my way through the entire book, and really feel that it was time well spent. I now feel that I actually understand the concepts and algorithms surrounding machine learning/AI/data mining, and as a bonus have become familiar with a huge number of web 2.0 APIs.

The source code is almost impeccable. Most programming books falter on sloppy and/or incomplete code, but Programming Collective Intelligence is well explained and has the complete Python code written in the book, as well as being available for download. I was able to do every example without any major problems, despite having never used the Python language before.

Well written & diagrammed, with good examples and wonderful explanations: this a fantastic book, and to be highly recommended.

excellent - accessible machine learning, 04 Dec 2007
This is excellent - forget the marketing rubbish about making better web 2.0 apps: It is all about machine learning - the science of how Amazon and others can make recommendations based on the ordering patterns of others.

The difference between it and other texts on this machine learning, is how accessible it is, and how apt the data sets it chooses are. Machine learning is an active area of research, and I was surprised that this book even covers kernel methods.

It generates a real appetite to learn more about the theory of machine learning: Which you will need, as most machine learning text books are mathematically tough going and dry.

I only wish I could skip the day job for a week and study this book from cover to cover.

Detailed and Relevant, 17 Jul 2008
If you are working in online marketing and not taking web analytics seriously then it's time to do so. Brian's book is a good way to get started with one of the most popular, and cost effective (it's free), web analytics solutions around.

The book reflects Brian's extensive knowledge of the Google Analytics package and provides clear and practical techniques for using the product. It is useful either as self study material or as part of a more formal training course and something I would certainly recommend to delegates attending our own Google Analytics classes.

Highly Recommended, 18 May 2008
I've been running Google Analytics on a number of web sites since it was first released in 2005. I've got a lot of good information out of it, but I've always suspected that I'm not using it to its full potential. Having read this book I now have a much better idea of what I'm missing and, more importantly, how I can put that right.

Brian Clifton has written a really useful guide to getting the most benefit out of Google's free web analytics system. He is, of course, well-placed to do that as he leads the Google Analytics team for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Part one is a good overview of web analytics is. Chapter one explains what web analytics is and what you can get out of it. Chapter two goes into more detail about the method that people use to analyse their web site traffic and chapter three introduces Google Analytics and explains where it fits into the web analytics landscape.

Part two gives an introduction to using Google Analytics. Chapter four looks at the interface to Google Analytics. This chapter gives the reader a good free for the interactivity of the Google Analytics interface. It's this interactivity that makes Google Analytics far easier to use than many of its competitors. Chapter five looks in more depth at ten of the reports that the system generates. By the end of this chapter I was already learning new little tips about the system.

Part three is about implementing Google Analytics on your web site. chapter six shows you how to tag your web pages so they are included in your reports. This is about as far as my Google Analytics knowledge goes. So chapter seven introduces ways to customise the Google Javascript code in order to have more control over what data is recorded, it was all new (and very interesting). For example, the chapter has techniques for measuring page load time and tracking outgoing links. Chapter eight is all about Google Analytics best practices and is full of the kinds of tips that only an expert in using the tool would be able to share with you. Having read this chapter I configured up some of my sites to track search queries and set up more goals on my sites. Chapter nine is called "Google Analytics Hacks" and is a really useful cookbook of tips and techniques for getting even more out of Google Analytics. Top of my list of things to implement from this chapter is to add tracking to all of my error pages.

The sections we've discussed so far have all been about generating as much useful data about your web site traffic as possible. But, of course, huge piles of data don't do you any good at all unless you can make some sense of the data and then act on your findings. This is what part four is about. Chapter ten offers some useful hints on how to make sense of all of the data you have collected. Clifton looks at a web site from a number of points of view (sales, marketing, web content creator and webmaster) and for each of them suggests a number of key performance indicators that will be of interest to them. He then shows how to construct these KPIs out of the data that Google Analytics has captured. Chapter eleven moves on to the next stage and looks a number of real-world examples where data from Google Analytics can be used to identify poor performance from areas of a web site and suggests ways to improve matters.

I'm no web analytics expert and, to be honest, some of the stuff in part four made my eyes glaze over a little. But my company doesn't rely on its web site for income so I've never had to worry about the number of visitors I get or how long they spend on the site. Web analytics has really just been a hobby for me. If I was in a company where those kinds of things were important, then I feel confident that this book would be the right one to turn to in order to learn more. This book certainly goes into more depth when talking about both the technical side of Google Analytics and how to interpret the data than any other book I've read on the subject.

This book has taught me a lot of new and interesting things about Google Analytics and I feel sure that I'll be going back to it in the future when I need to know more. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to get the most out of their Google Analytics installation.

A book providing instant ROI, 29 Apr 2008
It only took me three evenings to read this book. This book is catchy, it has coherency and is very well written. It contains numerous tips and has a lot of clarifying images.

Don't expect the full story about web analytics and how to interpret figures and metrics provided by Google Analytics. And I guess this wasn't the true purpose of the book. Web Analytics is quite difficult. It can't be explained on paper.

But you can surely expect an excellent in-depth overview of Google Analytics and how to properly collect and find actionable data in the generated reports.

After a first reading, this book remains highly valuable. I'm sure I will use it a lot as a reference book (with a handy index). Therefore, I suggest a hard cover for the next issue. A special edition for the fans?

If you're interested in the measurement side of online marketing, this book is highly advised. I've you like to learn more, if not everything about the Web Analytics power tool of Google, this book is a must read. You will not regret it.

It is a recipe for a growing enthusiasm for Google Analytics and Web Analytics. Brian Clifton gives you a long enduring ROI with his book. Five thumbs up for that!


Excellent. Thought-provoking., 18 May 2008
A very well presented, and extremely well researched effort. Everyone should read this. One star deducted jointly for the shameless (and frequent) promotion of the author's other works, and the sometimes unnecessarily long-winded passages in the book - its still very well done, but this is my own opinion.

I strongly recommend this book, very hard to put down.

Contains some wonderful ideas., 30 Apr 2008
For those of you who don't know, Ray Kurzweil is the man who invented Optical Character Recognition, along with various other pattern-recognition technologies. He is well-versed in what technology is theoretically capable of, and has spent his professional life trying to make it do these things.

I have nothing but good things to say about Ray Kurzweil, and this book in particular. The ideas that he puts forward may seem very optimistic, sometimes verging on techno-fanaticism, but nothing he is saying is negative. If he's right, the human race only has to survive until the 2040s and things will markedly improve.

However excellent I found the technological predictions made in this book, there are two points that brought it down to four stars. First, and a matter I admit is one of personal preference, there were far too many graphs to do with economy and business. This is an American book, so capitalism has to figure somewhere, and he is forgiven. The other point is that some of the speculations he is making are sociological ones and these are far more spurious than any technological speculations. However, they are not fundamental to what he is arguing.

All in all, an excellent, if at times overwhelming, read. I heartily recommend it as an introduction to transhumanism and futurism.

Revelatory, 21 Mar 2008
I discovered this book a couple of years ago. There was a sale at Waterstone's, and I had all but one of the books needed to take advantage of said sale. This took my interest, so I got a hold of it, and thank goodness I did.

I can honestly say that this is the most important non-fiction book I have ever read, and quite possibly one of the most important books period. Whilst I have always sensed something important might be taking place regarding technology, and I have always had a deep love of science and technology, Kurzweil highlights and articulates some incredible and illustrative concepts. I don't agree with everything he says, but the fundaments of the book seem entirely solid. Sometimes this terrifies me, but Kurzweil offers a great deal of hope as well.

Whether you embrace or reject the implications, however, Kurzweil's book makes an extremely imposing case that I have yet to see refuted. Reading it will prepare you for the future, whether that future looks glorious or horrifying to you.

Awesome book, 24 Jan 2008
My heart sank when I got this book. An American book on science that had that many pages must be written by someone who got paid by how many times they were able to repeat themselves. This has been my experience with books much thinner than this. Yet I was quite wrong. There is very little repetition and it is all appropriate. The book is very well written with careful attention given to the order in which ideas are presented. It is an astonishingly wide ranging book and essential reading for anyone who is interested in where technology is taking us. How the author found time to write it, along with perfoming all his other duties beats me. He must be one hell of a guy!
The only thing I take issue with him on, is... no I won't spoil it for you! You can make up your own mind. Just read it!

Advanced Logic Pro 8 Explained, 11 Oct 2008
If you want to get to grips with using the advanced features of Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. To get the most out of it you should have a good basic knowledge of Logic Pro 8 or have read "Logic Pro 8 and Logic Express 8" by David Nahmani which is a companion to this book and one of the very excellent Apple Pro Training series. The tutorial approach in this book is excellent and right from the word go you're making music. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The tutorials are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. The tutorials themselves come on a disc which you download onto your computer and open in Logic Pro 8. This is one of those books that you'll want to keep in your audio library as a valuable reference tool.

A perfect introduction to Logic, 11 Sep 2008
This is a great book - beautifully produced (it's great to have colour pictures) and very well written - no padding, just straight into working on Logic projects. I've just switched from Cubase and wanted to get going with Logic quickly, and can't recommend this book highly enough.

GREAT!!!, 17 Apr 2008
Got it today, delivery was quick! got a email notifying me of the price cut, had to jump on this great deal!!!

recommended to anyone who is intersted in making music with one of this industry standard software!!!

Logic Pro 8 first timer, 30 Aug 2008
As they say in Dragon's Den, "..let me tell you where I am". My experience - I am new to both Apple and Logic 8, and invested in both as technology was now able to cover my lack of formal music training.
After a months of 'playing' it was clear that the logic Pro 8 manual which comes with the package is well written, but does not offer up any projects or walkthroughs for you. This book does just that.

I thought that I was using maybe 25% of Logic's capabilities starting "raw" and self taught, but having only gone through 3 lessons so far on this book, I am surprised at what I did not know, even on basic inputs.

The DVD is structured with lessons that are logic projects and a few other artifacts to really hold your hand through every keystroke. Only on two occasions was I confused at what was being asked of me, which was partly due to my wireless keyboard not having all the keys that a full one does.

Certainly after lesson 3, you already feel you have made some significant progress and already understand editing audio, basic mixing, song construct and multi takes etc.

I will aim to update this when I am through all 12 lessons, but given this is probably about 16 hours equivalent of classroom quality training, I would not hesitate to recommend to new users like myself. The book forms part of Apple's Pro training programme and is classified 'Beginner/Intermediate'.

its ok kind of book, 06 Aug 2008
I would not go as far as other reviewers saying its a fantastic book because it isnt. its ok kind of book, it covers things superficially , I mean, if you are looking for an in-depth manual sort of book this is not for you (or me). this is more like a tutorial that guides you thru some stages but not thouroghly either. So if your looking to learn everrything from the start dont buy this , just read the manual and try things out , if you dont have the manual then look for something else as this only helps you a bit but not a lot.

Essential, 20 Jul 2008
Open this book before you open up Logic on your Mac. You will not regret it. It is step by step and simply and logically (no pun intended) laid out. If you want to get down to making music as quickly as possible this book allows you to do so, without assuming you have much previous knowledge.

Your Logic Pro 8 bible., 04 May 2008
If you want to get to grips with using Logic Pro 8 than this is the book for you. Right from the word go David Nahmani gets you making music and this hands on approach is used throughout the book. The book is clear and concise from beginning to end. The lessons are thorough without a step missed out and given to you in bite sized pieces so you never feel lost or overwhelmed. The numerous screen shots also act as a further guide to help you along. At the end of every of every chapter is a lesson review, a set of questions and answers, that nicely summarizes the key points of the lesson. I also liked the section on trouble shooting and the inclusion of a glossary of terms and the summary of keyboard shortcuts. This is a book you'll want to keep because once you been through the lessons it will make a valuable reference book to dip into again and again.

FAB!!!!, 17 Apr 2008
bought this aswell as the beyond the basics, started readin it today. I got it by mid day, delivery was very quick and the estimate on point, excellent value (RRP £40, no joke)am very happy with my purchase

What a great book to compliment Lego Mindstorms, 21 Jan 2008
My 12 year old son received Lego Mindstorms for Xmas in 2006 and I recognised that we needed further guidance and inspiration to learn and go beyond the basics. Therefore we bought this book for Xmas 2007,, and it's been fantastic. It offers a reference guide to all the pieces and how to work with gears and axles etc,, it explains and provides a reference for all the programming blocks. Then it provides 6 robots with clear step by step instructions on how to build them, and provides the programming code for each. The programmes build up in complexity to a level where the robots could be believed to be intelligent. The other great thing is that the author has provided free of charge all the programmes featured in the book on his website. We have downloaded a few for "tag-bot" with no difficulty. We have had great fun running tag-bot around the house. The programme downloads avoid you having to write the programme steps from scratch, and allow you to review them and learn from them. We are now using our understanding of the author's programmes to create alternatives. The authors work is clear, well written and authoritative. If you want your child or any adult for that matter to master Automation and Control, then you won't go wrong with this great Lego Mindstorms package and this book. Great Mr Perdue!!

This is the one!!!, 10 Nov 2007
OK, you have the brilliant Lego Mindstorms NXT set. You made Spike the Scorpion and were amazed but then there's a big gap - what do you do next?

This book arrived 3 hours ago. I've waited 4 months for it. It really teaches you robotics. I now understand gears!!

The diagrams are clearer than 'The Mayan Adventure' which has greyish black and white photographs. I'm confident the chapters on programming will explain NXT-G. The 6 robots - based on 4 designs look incredible. They start simple and get complex. If number 6 does what it says (and I think it will) I will be amazed.

This book, the Mindstorms NXT set and some well chosen storage containers (essential!) combine to make the best £200 Christmas present around.

Keeps coming back, again and again, 05 Nov 2008
This is an excellent book that I keep coming back to again and again. It explains a variety of complex machine learning algorithms with easy to follow, clear, concise code. The only bad word I've heard about this book is that occasionally it would be useful to see the algorithms as equations as well as code, I didn't find that a problem at all though.

Very Useful, 22 Oct 2008
I was a beginner in both python and general programming when I got this book together with a book on how to use Python in general.

I actually found this book more useful than the general Python book as the use of examples is a much better way of learning (in my opinion). The examples introduced get more and more complex through the book which then forces you to learn about those programs in order to understand what they've done.

The fact that it exposes you to live web based data from the beginning is very useful indeed. My only wish would be that the formatting would be a bit clear. Python seems to thrive on using indentation rather than brackets and it can be difficult to see exactly which level of indentation is being used.

You need a ruler to use it!

very good introduction, 11 Sep 2008
This book really does an awesome job at guiding you through the process of using collective intelligence in your own applications. For me, a bit more explanation on the math would be nice, but if i just pay attention it still seems to stick, so it's not crucial.
just, well, get it! it's good

Pete

A truly outstanding book, 29 Mar 2008
This book is definitely worth having on your bookshelf. It breaks down one of the most complex and demanding subjects into delightful, succinct and digestible pieces.

Having dredged my way through similar books in the past, I wasn't expecting too much, but Programming Collective Intelligence is remarkable. I found this book gripping; completing each example was very rewarding, and has now got me hooked on learning more.

I ended up working my way through the entire book, and really feel that it was time well spent. I now feel that I actually understand the concepts and algorithms surrounding machine learning/AI/data mining, and as a bonus have become familiar with a huge number of web 2.0 APIs.

The source code is almost impeccable. Most programming books falter on sloppy and/or incomplete code, but Programming Collective Intelligence is well explained and has the complete Python code written in the book, as well as being available for download. I was able to do every example without any major problems, despite having never used the Python language before.

Well written & diagrammed, with good examples and wonderful explanations: this a fantastic book, and to be highly recommended.

excellent - accessible machine learning, 04 Dec 2007
This is excellent - forget the marketing rubbish about making better web 2.0 apps: It is all about machine learning - the science of how Amazon and others can make recommendations based on the ordering patterns of others.

The difference between it and other texts on this machine learning, is how accessible it is, and how apt the data sets it chooses are. Machine learning is an active area of research, and I was surprised that this book even covers kernel methods.

It generates a real appetite to learn more about the theory of machine learning: Which you will need, as most machine learning text books are mathematically tough going and dry.

I only wish I could skip the day job for a week and study this book from cover to cover.

Detailed and Relevant, 17 Jul 2008
If you are working in online marketing and not taking web analytics seriously then it's time to do so. Brian's book is a good way to get started with one of the most popular, and cost effective (it's free), web analytics solutions around.

The book reflects Brian's extensive knowledge of the Google Analytics package and provides clear and practical techniques for using the product. It is useful either as self study material or as part of a more formal training course and something I would certainly recommend to delegates attending our own Google Analytics classes.

Highly Recommended, 18 May 2008
I've been running Google Analytics on a number of web sites since it was first released in 2005. I've got a lot of good information out of it, but I've always suspected that I'm not using it to its full potential. Having read this book I now have a much better idea of what I'm missing and, more importantly, how I can put that right.

Brian Clifton has written a really useful guide to getting the most benefit out of Google's free web analytics system. He is, of course, well-placed to do that as he leads the Google Analytics team for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Part one is a good overview of web analytics is. Chapter one explains what web analytics is and what you can get out of it. Chapter two goes into more detail about the method that people use to analyse their web site traffic and chapter three introduces Google Analytics and explains where it fits into the web analytics landscape.

Part two gives an introduction to using Google Analytics. Chapter four looks at the interface to Google Analytics. This chapter gives the reader a good free for the interactivity of the Google Analytics interface. It's this interactivity that makes Google Analytics far easier to use than many of its competitors. Chapter five looks in more depth at ten of the reports that the system generates. By the end of this chapter I was already learning new little tips about the system.

Part three is about implementing Google Analytics on your web site. chapter six shows you how to tag your web pages so they are included in your reports. This is about as far as my Google Analytics knowledge goes. So chapter seven introduces ways to customise the Google Javascript code in order to have more control over what data is recorded, it was all new (and very interesting). For example, the chapter has techniques for measuring page load time and tracking outgoing links. Chapter eight is all about Google Analytics best practices and is full of the kinds of tips that only an expert in using the tool would be able to share with you. Having read this chapter I configured up some of my sites to track search queries and set up more goals on my sites. Chapter nine is called "Google Analytics Hacks" and is a really useful cookbook of tips and techniques for getting even more out of Google Analytics. Top of my list of things to implement from this chapter is to add tracking to all of my error pages.

The sections we've discussed so far have all been about generating as much useful data about your web site traffic as possible. But, of course, huge piles of data don't do you any good at all unless you can make some sense of the data and then act on your findings. This is what part four is about. Chapter ten offers some useful hints on how to make sense of all of the data you have collected. Clifton looks at a web site from a number of points of view (sales, marketing, web content creator and webmaster) and for each of them suggests a number of key performance indicators that will be of interest to them. He then shows how to construct these KPIs out of the data that Google Analytics has captured. Chapter eleven moves on to the next stage and looks a number of real-world examples where data from Google Analytics can be used to identify poor performance from areas of a web site and suggests ways to improve matters.

I'm no web analytics expert and, to be honest, some of the stuff in part four made my eyes glaze over a little. But my company doesn't rely on its web site for income so I've never had to worry about the number of visitors I get or how long they spend on the site. Web analytics has really just been a hobby for me. If I was in a company where those kinds of things were important, then I feel confident that this book would be the right one to turn to in order to learn more. This book certainly goes into more depth when talking about both the technical side of Google Analytics and how to interpret the data than any other book I've read on the subject.

This book has taught me a lot of new and interesting things about Google Analytics and I feel sure that I'll be going back to it in the future when I need to know more. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to get the most out of their Google Analytics installation.

A book providing instant ROI, 29 Apr 2008
It only took me three evenings to read this book. This book is catchy, it has coherency and is very well written. It contains numerous tips and has a lot of clarifying images.

Don't expect the full story about web analytics and how to interpret figures and metrics provided by Google Analytics. And I guess this wasn't the true purpose of the book. Web Analytics is quite difficult. It can't be explained on paper.

But you can surely expect an excellent in-depth overview of Google Analytics and how to properly collect and find actionable data in the generated reports.

After a first reading, this book remains highly valuable. I'm sure I will use it a lot as a reference book (with a handy index). Therefore, I suggest a hard cover for the next issue. A special edition for the fans?

If you're interested in the measurement side of online marketing, this book is highly advised. I've you like to learn more, if not everything about the Web Analytics power tool of Google, this book is a must read. You will not regret it.

It is a recipe for a growing enthusiasm for Google Analytics and Web Analytics. Brian Clifton gives you a long enduring ROI with his book. Five thumbs up for that!


Excellent. Thought-provoking., 18 May 2008
A very well presented, and extremely well researched effort. Everyone should read this. One star