You can see a web page and terminal simultaneously without Dashboard.

I adore Dashboard! I use it every day, many times each day (can't say I use it constantly since I only flip in and out of it so i selected usually). I use dashboard to have certain things readily and immediately available with just one keystroke.

I have 5 maps in Radar in Motion that I love. The main map is an overview while the other maps are more specific for bad weather when needed. I have two other weather reports, as well. I live in an area that can be freezing at night and require air conditioning during the day. We also get storms passing through so the quick weather check is a must.

Utilities include dictionary, unit converter, battery info, hardware info (temps, memory, cpu, etc), word counter (for limited word or character entries), several stickies, a multipage todo for quick notes.

When waiting for a package, I use delivery status. I love that utility.

I run two windows of iCal Events, each with very specific calendars showing. These are the mainstay of what keeps me on track in college. I always know what's coming up with a 2 week warning of all exams, papers, and project due dates. This is integrated with personal business, doctor appointments, birthdays, and other things I must keep track of. I don't need to open iCal for any of it.

Just pressing one key tells me the weather, my calendar schedules, my todos, notes, package deliveries -- as well as giving me quick utilities and an immediate scratch pad.

I guess I'm using it like a personal organizer that I can customize with whatever features I need or want. I've grown so dependent on it, I can't imagine doing all I do without it.

All on just one page. All with just one keystroke.