1. IE Tab – you’ll never go back
If you’re like me there’s nothing more annoying than having to switch over to IE to use certain websites whose builders forgot to test their forms for compatibility with 47.7% of Internet users! The IE Tab sits in your Firefox status bar (bottom of your browser), one click and you’re viewing the site in an IE window within Firefox. And, if you happen to be one of those developers who does actually test their website, this is a useful testing tool allowing you to quickly switch between browser views. As they say “Once you go Firefox…”
2. WASP – the sneaky little analytics detector
If you live in a world of analyzing and helping others assess their website, or you just feel like spying on your competitors and friends, WASP is your bug. It detects and displays the analytics program a website is using in your Firefox status bar. Amazing how many sites are using Omniture and Google Analytics. It also contains implementation analysis tools.
3. FireShot – screen capture
An excellent built-in-browser screen shot and editing tool. Your functions are within easy reach via a status bar tool box. It’s full of functionality for a “free” tool and not disruptive to your work flow. For screen shots and video outside of your browser I’d recommend Jing.
The FireShot captures can be:
- uploaded to FREE public screenshot hosting
- saved to disk (PNG, GIF, JPEG, BMP)
- printed
- copied to clipboard
- e-mailed
- sent to configurable external editor for further processing
4. TwitterFox – easy tweeting from a little Twitter
While other apps like TweetDeck are richer in functionality what TwitterFox has going for it is it doesn’t interrupt your work flow. Another tool that sits discreetly in your status bar. One click and you have your tweet stream and posting functions overlaying your browser. No big windows or boxes, no taking you to another URL. And no Flash. Awesome for quick check-ins while your browsing the Web. Easy on your bandwidth.
5. Google Bookmarks Button Reloaded – you won’t touch browser bookmarks ever again
Google Bookmarks are accessible from any computer so you won’t lose your treasured library if your laptop takes a dive or you’re using someone else’s machine. Another work flow friend, just click the star shaped button in your browser bar (in the header) to add or view your Google Bookmarks then carry on with your trip.
If you have add-ons you can’t live without share them with us in a comment. If you’re still using IE click here to join the cool kids.
