Rick Cooper, The PDA Pro

Time for a Technology Audit

Are you leveraging technology to grow your business? Are you making the best use of the tools you have? Or, are you throwing money down the drain because you're failing to capitalize on your investment in technology?

Many entrepreneurs spend a lot of money on technology, but fail to get a return on their investment. Sometimes, they get drawn into the appeal of a certain technology. Sometimes, they know they need to implement technologies to grow their business. But for whatever reason, they don't follow through to actually make full use of the technology.

So, what can you do to make better use of the technologies that you have?

Take Time to Audit your Technology Tools

It's time to make a list of all of the technology hardware, software, websites and other services you have. Rate each tool on a scale of 1-10, where 1 is low and 10 is high. Then, look for duplication in the tools you have. Where do they overlap? What has the most potential?

Isn't it time you got a grip on the amount of money you're investing in technology tools for your business?  If you would like to audit your technology tools, I have a Free Technology Audit Template I can email you. Send me an email at Blog(at)ThePDApro.com to request the template. Ask for the Technology Audit Template.

How Do You Feel About Technology Right Now?

I'm just curious, how do you feel about using technology right now? Are you really connected with the technology you're using? Or are you so over it???

I constantly have a love/hate relationship with technology. I have way too many technology tools to support me in my personal life and in my business. Most of the time, things are humming along. But occasionally, I just feel out of sync with the technology tools I'm using. Do you ever feel like that?

Do you love technology or do you hate it?

Please post a comment and let me know what you love about the technology tools you're using, and what you hate!

Thanks.

Rick Cooper, The PDA Pro
http://www.ThePDApro.com

Holiday Tips for Buying Technology

The holidays are here. And that means people are going to go hogwild on buying technology. For those of you who held off all year and saved your money, it's time to splurge. So what can you do to keep from overspending and regretting your purchases?

First, brainstorm a list of your needs. When considering what to buy, it's always important to think about what you need. Tech tools often overlap. For example, printers can scan, fax and copy in addition to printing. Think about what tools you already have and how much longer they may last.

Next, make a list of tech tools you want and need. This step involves some research because it's actually time to determine what's available in the marketplace.

At some point, you're going to have to start prioritizing. Most people can't afford everything they want. And it usually doesn't make sense to buy everything you want at the same time anyway. Technology tools become obsolete the minute you buy them.

One of the best strategies is to create a Technology Plan that includes all of the tools you want in the next year.

Now, it's finally time for the fun part. It's time to go shopping. This is where you actually get to touch and play with the various tech tools you are considering. Most people don't take time to try out the different options. But, it’s worth the extra effort.

It's usually a good idea to consider at least three alternatives. You should easily be able to weed out options that don't make sense for you. When you narrow down to three options, you can now begin to evaluate the pros and cons of each tool. You will appreciate the time you invested in this simple, but effective approach.

Now, there are a few other things to consider before making your final decision. First, shop for sales. Because technology does become obsolete so quickly, you will always be able to find a great deal on clearance merchandise.

Next, consider when new models are going to be released. Many new consumer electronics are released in January during the big Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Sites like Engadget.com will keep you informed on what's going to be released soon. As new models are introduced, prices on older models will drop.

One final strategy to consider is to buy one tool and then implement it. Then, go through the process with another tool. You will save money by stretching out your dollars. It takes time to learn how to use a new technology. If you buy too many tools at once, you will end up leaving them on the shelf. Keep it simple and buy one at a time. Then, take time to learn to use it effectively. Also, be sure to find out the return policy, which is often only 30 days. Make sure the product is right for you and return it if not.

Taking these simple and easy steps will allow you to leverage your time and increase your productivity. Happy Holidays!

Get Smart Phone

Are you a gadget freak? I love technology, but only it it makes my life easier and more productive. One of the concepts that has captured the imaginations of people for decades is the Dick Tracy-style wrist watch phone. This was followed by Maxwell Smart's crazy shoe phone. The fact is that we love the idea of technology that we can wear.

Well, life may be getting a little more convenient. According to Engadget, Samsung has applied for a patent for a cell phone that can be worn on the wrist and pulled out for hands access also. It could be years before a model actually shows up. But, the fact is that companies will continue to look for ways to make technology wearable. The day will come when you can integrate technology better into your lifestyle.

Engadget sees some problems with the concept:

"Granted, the idea could be problematic in a myriad ways -- leading to public humiliation and a lack of broad compatibility with mobiles for starters -- but we can't fault 'em for trying."

And that's the challenge. There are a lot of great technologies that appear and then disappear. If a product can't find a market, it will disappear, plain and simple. The market for wearable technologies is growing, but has not reached the mainstream. Costs are often too high and when it comes down to it, peer pressure often prevents people from actually wearing the technology. But, times are changing. And convenience will eventually trump social pressure. Apple has been extremely successfully at turning technology products into a fashion statement. That may be the key for creating products that create demand and generate buzz in the marketplace.

In the meantime, there are plenty of PDA/smartphone models out there which offer all of the capabilities you need. And the products are getting faster, the screens are getting crisper, the keyboards are getting easier to type on, and there is more mobile content worth accessing through the internet. Good luck and Get Smart Phone!

Future Trends in PDAs

What can you expect over the next year in PDAs? Great question! Well, for one, expect the trend toward smartphones to continue. People are beginning to appreciate the value of connecting to the internet from their mobile device and viewing websites or checking email. The YouTube generation now expects to be able to view video clips from their mobile device.

The iPhone is a perfect example of the media based mobile device. And expect to be able to use the iPhone with other carriers, according to Engadget. But, what about someone who justs wants to look at their calendar, select a contact or check their task list? The options will grow slimmer for the non-connected PDA. The market just isn't there. Smartphones represent a much higher value to telecom companies. Not only can they sell you a phone plan, they can also charge you on bandwidth for audio and video downloads. Plus, they can also potentially make money on ads through mobile marketing.

Even The PDA Guy, Anthony Caruana, has questioned whether Palm has a future on Hydrapinion. Of course , Palm has already been bought and sold a few times. So, that's probably what will happen again. I still like the Treo as an all around PDA/smartphone. But, it doesn't appeal to younger consumers who are addicted to text messaging and IM and live their lives on MySpace. Smartphones based on the Helio platform appeal to them and will grow in appeal. It's social networking on steriods.

There will always be a market for standalone, handheld devices. Not everyone wants to be connected. And some people just can't afford it. But, whatever device you select, I encourage you to think first about productivity. Yes, being able to view a funny clip from YouTube can help you while away the hours. But, remember that your time is valuable. Limit your consumption of media. Set meaningful goals that will challenge you. Leverage technology to do more in less time. Yes, relax and enjoy yourself. But, strike a balance in your life. Take control of your destiny.

Whether you pick a PDA or smartphone, take time to evaluate the options to determine what you need. Determine what will make YOU more productive. If time is not an issue, wait till January. That's when the big Consumer Electronics Show is held. Most new models for the year are released or announced then. For more information on selecting a PDA or smartphone, visit http://www.thepdapro.com/FindaPDA.asp.

Everything About Web 2.0

Bob Stumpel maintains a comprehensive of sites and applications that feature Web 2.0 technologies at Everything 2.0. For more information, check out Wikipedia for Web 2.0.

Thanks to Matthew Hollingsworth in his blog Nontrivial Exercises for the information and link.

Give Big Brother a Helping Hand with Mologogo

Smartphone and Pocket PC magazine shares details on a new service that allows you to share your location in real-time. They indicate,

"Mologogo is a free service that will track a friend's GPS-enabled cell phone from another phone or on the web. Mologogo also serves as a dirt-cheap tracking system, so go ahead and fauxjack something."

This has immediate appeal for younger consumers. Can you see a business use for it? Can you see any risks or potential abuses (i.e. stalkers)? Does this open you up to increased scrutiny from Big Brother (as in the movie Enemy of the State.) It's another indication that we are integrating further with our technology, for better or worse.

Check out Mologogo for further details on their service.

Should Google Exclude Blogs from Searches?

It's interesting that Google added a Blogsearch, and yet does not allow an option to exclude blogs from an advanced Google Search. I hope it's not because they now own Blogger. Hmm.  It would certainly be nice to exclude blogs, especially when searching Google from a PDA browser. That would muffle some of the online pollution we currently encounter when searching the Internet.

Don't get me wrong, Google is my favorite search engine. Several years ago I used Yahoo exclusively, but now I prefer Google's clean interface. But, I've been less satisfied with search results since the volume of blogs exploded.

I may have to start using some of the tools Web Strategist Jeremiah Owyang recommends such as Digg, Delicious and Memetrackers. I'm currently trying out Google Reader as an alternative to Bloglines.

Global Conversations Cloud Creative Content

Jeremiah Owyang posts on the topic of Global Conversations in his blog Web Strategy by Jeremiah. It continues our discussion on free speech and the technology that will enable greater communication worldwide.

Jeremiah makes some good points. He says,

"I’ve been fascinated with the concept of mass empowerment for the global conversation. A few days ago, I discussed the anticipation of the 50 dollar laptop, and how it can benefit humanity. Where everyone has the opportunity to be online, communicate, grow and learn --That’s what healthy web geeks should think about."

I would agree that everyone has the right and should have the opportunity to be online, communicate, grow and learn. Technology may ultimately be an equalizer in reducing the racial divide by creating opportunities in poverty-stricken communities by giving hope, knowledge and access to resources. This is all good.

My concern is more-so that the proliferation of websites, blogs, and other online tools will increase the number of web pages to a point that it will be difficult to cut through the morass of chitchat, gossip and rumor-mongering. The quality of content is likely to plunge dramatically even as the enlightened online thoughts of intelligent thinkers emerge.

Don't get me wrong, the march of technology will continue. This is as inevitable as snow in winter. In referencing Seth Godin on Small is the New Big, Jeremiah ensures us that,

"Even with increased content, we’re not in the state of Information Overload, we’re approaching the era of Information Control. "

I honestly hope so,  but my personal experience has been that it is getting more difficult to find quality information, especially when using search engines like Google. There are tools like Squidoo that intend to offer avenues to locate quality content. And, of course, bloggers have become online guides purporting to hold your hand in exploring the online world. Even technology expert Dave Taylor grumbles about his dissatisfaction with RSS Readers.

I have no concerns for the tech-savvy as they have a greater knowledge of online tools and resources. My concern is for the untold millions that are trying to grasp the infinite possibilities available on the Internet and are often overwhelmed by the seemingly endless content. As an expert on PDAs and mobile technology, I know all too well how frustrating it can be to search for online information in a mobile browser. This will improve as high speed connections become more available for mobile users and people begin opting for tablet and mini-tablet PCs (such as Origami) which will offer a more satisfying online experience.

Younger generations are now born with the tools of technology placed in their hands. The tech-savvy will inherit the earth. However, the silent majority still struggle and will be left further behind as online content spirals out of control. Free speech is overrated, although it is our inherent right. Global conversatons will lift spirits and improve life, while at the same time fueling hatred and encouraging strife. This is the nature of things. Let us exercise responsibility and practice patience as we encounter people from other cultures. Let us appreciate the diversity that is mankind. And, let us pray that things will improve and let's make it happen!

So, the debate rages on. What do you think? Are we on the path to information overload or information control? Will the global conversation become a shouting match? Chime in and stay tuned!

Free Speech is Overrated

Free speech is truly overrated. Just because people have the right to speak and share ideas doesn't necessarily mean that people will say anything meaningful. In fact, as more people have the capability to share their ideas globally, it will pollute the collective consciousness of society.

In his blog, Web Strategy by Jeremiah, Jeremiah Owyang says,

"Enablement software is for the global community, and can empower individuals to enter the global conversation at no cost –just add internet. "

It reminds me of my favorite quote from Jurassic Park, from Dr. Ian Malcom played by Jeff Goldblum,

"I'll tell you the problem with the scientific power that you're using here: it didn't require any discipline to attain it. You read what others had done and you took the next step. You didn't earn the knowledge for yourselves, so you don't take any responsibility for it. You stood on the shoulders of geniuses to accomplish something as fast as you could and before you even knew what you had you patented it and packaged it and slapped it on a plastic lunchbox, and now you're selling it, you want to sell it! "

Now granted Jeremiah is advocating free tools to extend this global conversation, but nothing is truly free. Someone's making a buck somewhere along the way.

You might be asking yourself what this has to do with PDAs. In fact, it has a lot to do with PDAs, because mobility will create more opportunities to broadcast, share and report on life as it happens. It's already happening. And, that will have some drastic consequences. We've already seen the Iranian government harrassing bloggers in that country. My fear is that ever increasing free speech will ultimately result in governments curtailing our rights. Even Singapore has indicated it's going to ban podcasts during the next election.

I guess I'm arguing for measured growth so we can avoid total anarchy. Learn more about Smart Mobs to see how anarchist groups are utilizing technology to swarm public places. Mobile technologies are expected to be used increasingly in upcoming elections. Do you think this behavior might be disruptive? I think so. This trend will only continue. And, what are we to do when terrorists begin using these tools?

Think about it.  Take responsibility for the technology you create and exercise caution. If that doesn't concern you, consider how long it will be before artificial intelligence truly emerges and machines really begin thinking for themselves. But that's a topic for another day.

Bottom line, I'm playing devil's advocate to a certain extent. I don't want to dishonor the U.S. troops who have died in defense of our civil liberties and freedoms. I believe in free speech but we have to exercise caution or else we stand to lose those rights. But, I do think technology advances faster than societies change. See my recent post about the kosher phone for an example of society rejecting technology, or at least constraining the freedoms it offers.

So, be careful of what you create. Let's remember the parable of Frankenstein. Just because you have the technology to create something doesn't necessarily mean it's a good thing! Thank you for your indulgence.

[Member, LinkedIn Bloggers]

Updates:

4-08-06 Jeremiah Owyang posts Global Conversations are Polluting the Collective Consciousness? I Disagree.

4-08-06 Rick Cooper posts Global Conversations Cloud Creative Content

4-08-06 Rick Cooper posts Five Simple Strategies to Muffle Online Pollution

4-08-06 Mike Sansone posts Whistle Stops - 04/08/06

4-09-06 Mike Sansone posts Have Your Say - It's Important to Somebody

4-09-06 Jeremiah Owyang posts Mike the conductor whistles in