John's Background Switcher VS Plotter

• Versatile Image Sources
  John's Background Switcher allows users to select images from various sources, including local folders, online photo sites like Flickr, and even social networks like Facebook and Instagram, ensuring a wide variety of potential backgrounds.
• Customizable Frequency
  Users can set how often the background changes, from every few seconds to once a day, providing flexibility to match personal preferences.
• Image Collages
  The software can create collages from selected photos, adding visual interest and variety to the desktop background.
• Multi-Monitor Support
  John's Background Switcher supports multiple monitors, allowing users to have different images on each screen or a single image spanning multiple screens.
• No Clutter
  The software is designed to be unobtrusive, running quietly in the background without impacting system performance significantly.

Possible disadvantages

• Limited Platform Availability
  As of now, John's Background Switcher is primarily available for Windows and macOS, leaving users of other operating systems without support.
• Complex Customization Settings
  Some users might find the extensive customization options overwhelming and potentially confusing, making it less user-friendly for those who prefer simplicity.
• Dependency on Image Sources
  The quality and variety of backgrounds depend greatly on the connected image sources. Issues with these sources (e.g., changes in APIs or policies) might affect the functionality.
• Update Frequency
  Updates to the software may not be frequent, which could be problematic in addressing bugs or keeping up with changes in supported online image sources.
• Paid Features
  Certain advanced features or extensive usage may require a paid version, which could limit functionality for users relying on the free version.

• User-Friendly Interface
  Plotter offers a clean and intuitive user interface, making it easier for users to focus on writing and plotting without getting lost in complex menus or features.
• Story Planning Tools
  Plotter provides robust story planning features, such as timeline, outlining, and character development tools, which help writers organize and structure their stories effectively.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility
  Plotter is available on multiple platforms such as Windows, macOS, and mobile devices, allowing users to access their projects across different devices with ease.
• Collaboration Features
  The app supports collaborative features, enabling writers to share projects and work together in real-time, which is beneficial for team projects or writing partners.

Possible disadvantages

• Limited Customization Options
  While Plotter offers excellent structure and planning tools, it may lack customization options for users who have specific needs or prefer more flexibility in their workflows.
• Subscription Cost
  Plotter operates on a subscription model, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer a one-time purchase or are looking for free alternatives.
• Learning Curve
  New users might experience a learning curve as they get accustomed to Plotter’s features and functionalities, especially if they are used to more traditional writing tools.
• Offline Availability
  Some users might find the offline capabilities limited, as the app may require internet access for certain features or for syncing across devices.

• Ask HN: What project do you donate to?

  Not regularly, but I have donated to: FreeFileSync, an excellent file sync utility within a network. https://freefilesync.org/ StemRoller, separate stems (e.g., voice) from songs. https://www.stemroller.com/ John's Background Switcher,... - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago

• Microsoft should make it easier to people use other Shells/window managers

  Now it's just a wallpaper changer pointed to a folder of my kids pics This one : Https://johnsad.ventures/software/backgroundswitcher/. Source: over 3 years ago

• Where you get wallpapers for your Mac?

  I used to use https://johnsad.ventures/software/backgroundswitcher/ and it's cool. But latest years I just stick to Snow Leopard. A bit of nostalgia. :). Source: over 3 years ago

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Tracking Plotter since Mar 2022.