They other day I had a problem uploading my blog to my paid server. My blog software is for complete newbies like me. The database stays on my PC and when I make an entry or update the blog, all new files are uploaded and old ones overwritten with the click of a button. I dig it.

"Keeping up isn't just a matter of reading gossip and yapping with your peers. You have to stay ahead to get ahead in any business. This one even more so."

Anyway, I’ve been using this software since late 2003. I tried it. I liked it. I bought it. I bought the original release version. I was so happy with what I had; I put off downloading any new version releases for a year. I finally got around to getting an upgrade for my blog software in late 2004. I’ve been sailing with it ever since. I had no problem with my blog for almost two years. Then it happened. My beautiful blog program started to freeze during upload.

At first, I thought the problem was my web server. I spent a long time on the phone with support and the tech was very helpful. He even switched my account and my files to another server right then and there. I have to say that my blog uploads a lot better than it did before I called my host.

When I say ‘a lot better’, I mean that I can upload my blog completely now, whereas before, the software would freeze in the middle of the process. It doesn’t freeze anymore. Instead, the blog uploads like a snail. It takes a good fifteen minutes for it to upload new files and overwrite old ones. Fifteen minutes on a DSL connection. Before things went wrong, the upload for my blog took all of 30 seconds on my DSL desktop. Sixty seconds on my dial-up laptop. Not good. I looked into upgrading my blog software. That’s when I figured out it had been two years since I’d bothered to check.

I’ve written articles on the importance of regular site updates. I’ve given you prose that covered intended and pending legislation affecting our profession. I’ve devoted thousands and thousands of words on the subject of new technologies and marketing strategies. I’ve authored lesson after lesson on the cornucopia of niches that you can promote as an adult webmaster. I have dedicated countless hours of my life informing you about new billing options, content possibilities, design trends software and services.

Now it’s your turn.

My little adventure with my blog software reminded me that I too, am guilty of slack. I neglected to update the program and now I’m about three versions behind. While my inattention is not a crime, it’s not very smart either.

Let’s me ask you this:

When was the last time you took the time to make sure every link, image and script work properly on your website(s)? When was the last time you went searching for a new niche to market? How about that content provider you bought a few sets from a year ago. Have you managed to check out his newest stuff? Remember that gallery you submitted over a year ago? Is it still listed? Is it still online? How about those ten three-page free sites you were suppose to build and forget? Did you forget to check and see if they’re still there?

What about the rulemakers and regulators? Did you ever get around to calling that lawyer for a legal consultation? Have you been staying informed on new regulations like the changed Title 18 2257? Have you updated your records and licenses and 2257 info pages? What about those really old sets? Is the original custodian of records still in business? If ICANN decides to actually implement the .xxx TLD, will you be prepared to pay over $100.00 per domain just to keep your brand? Do you realize that COPA isn’t dead, it’s just sleeping?

Did you know that blogs are huge right now? Do you know how to create pages that can be syndicated via RSS feed? Were you aware that SMS billing is very popular in Europe and that cell phone/mobile porn is still the next, big thing? How about them billers? Has this industry managed to produce a solution to VISA’s attempt to cuckold third-party billing? When was the last time you tried a new piece of software or attempted to learn a new scripting language besides HTML? Formats and technologies change. Will you fade away because you didn’t take the time to master something new?

Keeping up isn’t just a matter of reading gossip and yapping with your peers. You have to stay ahead to get ahead in any business. This one even more so. The Internet porn industry is one of the fastest-evolving professions in the world. Keep Up or you’ll be left behind.