Can creating a usefull tool work? Even tool not relevant to site?

[Oimachi2]

I want to create "content" as Google says...

Problem is there is no content to create in my industry, but I can make a tool that will increase PR , traffic and recommendations no problem.

Let's say I sell toothpicks.

Then I make a free tool to create perfect CSS drop downs online, let's say this works better than anything out there. Let's say it cranks a PR5 within a year.

Then I link to my toothpick website from the CSS tool although the theme of the tool is web design and not toothpicks.

Will this impact me positively?

Or should I create a "Complete and exhaustive history of the toothpick"...;)

Or might Google "punish" me because the tool has nothing to do with my website?

[CainIV]

Let's say I sell toothpicks.

Then create a tool showing how when you recycle X number of toothpicks, a tree is saved.

There are always tools, for any topic, without fail. Just requires time and creativity to find.

I try and always stay within the same niche, as the tool will resonate best with your readers and those who might be interested in the site.

[Oimachi2]

How about a generic tool that helps for anybody without niche?

For example, I wrote a tutorial on how to dissable Google instant and IP highjacking for all major browsers. I mean how many people hate instant out there?

Would that work? Even if not related to my industry? I mean the post could get backlinks and increase PR?

[CainIV]

It could work, but more relevant link bait techniques generally perform better.