I've noticed that a lot of the all-glass super-engineered, architect designed places with glass to all possible corners have (probably oversized for looks) steel cables with turnbuckles to hold them square.  Usually crossed.  

I think they're ugly.  Mind you thin ones wouldn't look any better.

(and we had a small earthquake about 20 miles away last week)

I would be willing to try the steel/metal banding idea, as far as wind damage. Sounds like a reasonable idea. Probably do a little dumpster-diving at some building sites too if I could get it free.

There are always these when you want to spend money.  Note they replace Code 1x4 let in brace - not shear wall requirements.

http://www.strongtie.com/products/connectors/WB-WBC-TWB-CWB-RCWB.html




See Simpson page for various styles.

More bracing and code info from Simpson.

http://www.strongtie.com/news/industry/wall-bracing/conventional.html

Here is a diagram of comparative wall rigidity.

This link has another good description and graphic (warning, tripod sites do have an ad popup you need to close)
http://mgacon0.tripod.com/plywood.htm