I use Google Alerts for a number of reasons, but the best reason is when an unexpected surprise arrives.   Smashing Magazine posted “Showcase of Academic and Higher Education Websites” by Cameron Chapman .

Looking at others work is a great source of creative nourishment  for me.  What I like about the Showcase, besides the shear volume of sites,  is that Cameron encourages suggestions.  Compelling and relevant photography is a consistent theme for the most attractive websites.