Many of you use Google Maps on your website. You may receive a scary sounding email about the new Google Maps Platform and fees.
Don’t Buy a Mac
I’m trying to do a new website for a MAC user. She’s not super computer literate so everything she tries to share with me takes her twice as long. Her Pages and Numbers files don’t convert to Word or Excel cleanly. What she thinks is a graphic file, isn’t.
There are 4 times more Windows users than MAC users. So chances are REALLY good that MAC users are going to need to share files with a Windows person.
Why make your computer life harder? Unless you are working in a graphics related industry and the only people you share files with are other MAC users, stay away from MACs.
Sure you get free support from the Apple store. How much time do you have for standing in line during regular business hours? But don’t try googling a question for a quick answer because chances are slim you’ll find the answer. Have a Windows question? There are hundreds of answers in blog sites, YouTube videos and forums.
Want some training on the software? There are hundreds of YouTube videos and articles about Windows. Not so much on the iOS.
So unless your goal is to be a full time computer whiz who can rock all those graphics programs, don’t buy a MAC.
Are You Addicted to Your Smart Phone?
Smartphone addiction is a real thing and while this article talks more about the younger generation, its not limited to them as I have seen some of my clients and friends with the same addiction. You know who you are! I encourage you to use this suggested method to break your addiction!
I completely believe we check email too often and put pressure on ourselves to respond instantly. What moments are we missing by putting this pressure on ourselves?
An excellent book on better email processes is “The Hamster Revolution” by Mike Song. Good, practical processes to spend less time on email and more time on the important things.
Should I Respond to Update Messages?
Maybe. If the update notice is from a reputable company like Adobe Reader, Java, QuickBooks, etc., yes, do the update. They are fixing bugs, updating security and improving the software.
If you don’t recognize the name of the software, do NOT respond or update. Call Your Computer Lady or your hardware tech to ask first.
Best option: Take a screen shot of the message and email it to your adviser. That will give us all the details we need to give you a good answer.
How do I make a screen shot?
On your keyboard, there is a key titled “Print Screen.” Press that key while the message is on your screen. Now open a Word doc. Right click on your mouse to get a pop up menu and choose “Paste.” This will paste the screen shot into Word. Save the document. Email it to YCL or your IT tech.
Prevent Eye Strain While Working
There are some simple tips to help prevent eye strain while you’re at your computer.
- Change the brightness of your monitor screen to match the light level of your room. EX: If you’re working with the lights off in the office, dim the screen. Or the reverse, brighten the screen when the sun is shining in the windows and adding to the florescent lighting.
- Adjust the monitor and/or your chair until your eye level aligns with the top of the monitor. We naturally look downward by about 10-15 degrees. Next best option: Align so you are looking at the center of your monitor. Do NOT look up at your monitor! That’s bad for your eyes and your neck.
- Increase the font size of your Windows displays and of your software programs. Use at least a 12 point font. You can even use a larger font later in the day to help with eye strain.
- Be wary of the colorful background designs offered by Windows, Firefox and other software manufacturers. Yes, they are entertaining but they are harder on your eyes than a simple design where the contrast between the background color and the font is greater.
- Take frequent breaks. No, not to play solitaire! Blink your eyes. Look out the window, across the room, somewhere in the distance. Do a couple of easy stretches sitting in your chair or standing at your desk. Close your eyes and take some deep breathes.
Why a Business Should Buy Business-class Computers Not the Weekend Special
There are some great deals out there on PCs, laptops, printers and the other electronics we depend on. Really inexpensive hardware that can temp the business owner. But Digital Bridge Business Solutions urges you to use caution when hardware shopping. There are distinct differences in consumer electronics compared to business-class hardware. Making the right purchase can you save you big dollars in the long run.
Reputable manufacturers and retailers make clear distinctions between “home” or “business” products. Look for descriptors such as “student,” “home office,” or “small –medium business.” Compare carefully when you shop or ask Digital Bridge Business Solutions for assistance.
Obsolescence
All hardware is built with an obsolescence plan. The manufacturers know you will have to come back for new equipment. The timeframe is shorter on consumer electronics. When production stops, the manufacturer stops adding drivers for newer software or operating systems. So you have a computer that won’t run Windows 7 or a printer that won’t scan to Adobe Reader 10. Business-class hardware has an obsolescence plan but it is for a longer time frame. Manufacturers know they have to continue supporting the hardware after production because businesses keep their hardware longer and upgrade more often.
Consistency in components
Business-class hardware is built with more consistency. If you buy 5 or 50 PCs, all of their components will be the same. This is a huge advantage for your IT staff as they set up and maintain the equipment. They only need to know one set up, not 50 different configurations. Upgrades and repairs become much easier.
Expandability
Business-class hardware comes with room to grow and to upgrade. Since the PC will be used for a longer period of time, the manufacturer has to allow for the possibility of upgrading components (CD burner upgraded to DVD burner) or improving the capabilities (50GB hard drive replaced with a 500GB hard drive). Consumer electronics allow little or no expansion. What you see is what you get.
Durability
Business-class electronics are also built to withstand heavier use. It’s likely that they will be moved around in the office or carried frequently on business travel. Their longer lifespan is built in.
Security
While most of us think of security being managed by software programs, there are hardware enhancements that give business-class equipment extra protection. This protection is not included in consumer hardware.
Warranties
Every manufacturer’s warranties vary. But typically consumer electronics come with only a 1 year warranty as the manufacturer knows they are not going to be supporting the equipment long term. The warranty protects the manufacturer as much or more than it does the consumer. Business-class hardware, on the other hand, usually has a 3 year warranty. The warranties often cover more for business equipment.
Thinking long term will help you spend your hardware dollars wisely. Digital Bridge Business Solutions is always available to assist you with advice and recommendations.
from the May issue of the Digital Bridge Business Solutions newsletter