Another new Segment: GM Diaries

I've recently begun Gamemastering a role playing game using the Hero system, which is designed to simulate role playing games based around superhero comics and similar inspirations. I asked the players to make original superhero characters for a near futuristic setting, while designing a series of opponents and challenges for them, as well as a consistent setting and at least a general way in which you want the story to go.

I know my players are far too independent to try to lead them by the nose, so I'm using a much more "sandbox" method of plot direction, where I write what's going on in the background universe, determine who knows about it and let the players stumble across sources of information, and then find out what they plan to do next before the night's session ends so I can have a head start in my thinking next week. I try to end each session with the heroes having accomplished something, and gauging a general direction for their next actions.