Put Some Zip in Your Surfing
Five simple digits can open doors online.I love Web sites that offer great information and ask only for my zip code in return, rather than my name, e-mail address, or some other personally identifiable information. Despite the lack of intimacy, the results are tailored to me--or more specifically, to where I live. Zip codes won't unlock every door online, but many sites let me use them to pinpoint what I need quickly and easily.
Up to Code
I never start a day online without first checking in at Weather.com, where entering my zip code turns up so much great localized information--including golf and boating forecasts, pollen counts, and scrolling severe weather alerts--that talking about the weather is no longer mundane. And in the Indian summer, I jump over to Skeeterbites.com to see if I should pack insect repellent when I step outside.
At some sites I can enter my zip code to find replacements for resources I left behind when I moved into a new home outside Washington, D.C. If I need a contractor to repair some cabinetry, for example, I go to ContractorGuide.com. I've also found ImproveNet to be a big help, but the site also requires data such as cross streets (not names, addresses, or phone numbers, though). To find a lawyer, I go to FindLaw; for doctors, I head to the American Medical Association site. I haven't yet found a tool that I like for locating a dentist near me (though I have found a dentist, rest assured).
My zip code also helps me learn about where I live--or where I might live if I move again. At APBnews.com, I quickly discovered that crime in my zip code is almost nonexistent (although nearby zip codes aren't so lucky). At Yahoo Real Estate, I received a detailed profile of my zip code, including average annual utility costs--very helpful. But the granddaddy of all demographic tools is the U.S. Census Bureau's American FactFinder . Click the link to the 2000 Summary File 1 and choose Detailed Tables or Quick Tables to start exploring the reams of data the census collects about your zip code.
At the end of my day, I just want to relax. So I pop over to TV Guide Online to see what's on my favorite network and cable TV channels. Where else is a detailed guide to eight seasons of "Diff'rent Strokes" just a click away? And if the TV listings are uninspiring, I check Moviefone.com to see what's playing nearby, or Fandango to buy movie tickets for select local theaters.
Of course, when I do go out, I want to make sure I can be reached in case of an emergency--and for a reasonable fee. GetConnected lets you compare wireless phone plans, local phone services, and more.
When offered the choice of giving your name and address or just your zip code, type the five simple digits. You'll save a little time, protect your privacy, and get some great information in return.
Gimme Five: Top Online Learning Sites
- University of Phoenix: A pioneer in online education. Offers degrees in areas like business administration, IT, and education.
- Columbia Interactive: Ivy League university has fee-based online seminars taught by the school's faculty. Semester-length courses require admission and tuition.
- U.C. Berkeley Extension Online: Take courses for continuing education, corporate training, or academic credit. Course selections include computer science, Web design, and e-commerce.
- The Kaplan Colleges: Degree programs in criminal justice and paralegal studies are prominent, as well as business and IT concentrations.
- CyberU: College classes, professional training, and computer software courses under one roof. It's suitable for individuals or businesses.
Contact PC World Contributing Editor Brad Grimes at websavvy@pcworld.com.