In all forms, automation is best served by a single control and monitor 'console'. One place to come to review all events, to change preferences and schedules, and to coordinate actions of other programs or devices. XTen sion is a carefully crafted application which gives you this 'window' on your home. Providing not only an encouraging place to come to create your first simple system, but later when you expand, a delightful surprise in it's rich features.
Home automation is here to stay.
It is not just a rich man's toy. It can save you money, time, aggravation, and even your life. A few X-10 modules to begin experimenting. Follow the 'right arrow' buttons all the way to the page about Monitoring from another Mac, and you will have a good idea of how to think about XTension and what kinds of things you can do with the basic X-10 devices. Go here for the whole list of articles, tutorials and ideas.