February 29, 2008
What qualifications your IT guy should have
No matter what position you are hiring for you are going to need to make sure that the person you are hiring for that job has certain qualifications. Basically you want to make sure that these people are actually able to do the job that is required of them and that they have the know how of how to do the job. The reason for this is that you don't want to have somebody doing a job that they can't physically or mentally do; basically you don't want to have a maintenance worker running the accounting department. What this means is that you want to hire the right person for the right job and this includes your IT guy. So in order to make sure that you are hiring the right person for your IT department you are going to want to make sure that this person meets certain qualifications that you have set forth before you hire them.
But something that you want to keep in mind is that the qualifications can be adjusted to fit your needs. Basically what this means is that if you find somebody who has the ability and the experience but is lacking the education qualification you can make expectations. But something else that you want to think about is that you will want to have different qualifications for entry level IT guys compared to supervisors.
February 28, 2008
Protecting business computers from virusess
Since the beginning of the internet, computer viruses, data crackers, and spyware has always created a headache for businesses. If your company is using Macs instead of PCs, you are probably feeling safe from viruses. Most hackers don't write viruses for Macs since the vast majority of computer users are PC users.
Having a good company policy in place is always beneficial. Your staff should know they are not allowed to download anything from anyone they don't know or are not expecting. Esalestrack has laid out the following steps for protecting your company computers:
February 27, 2008
Video monitoring systems for businesses
When it comes to video monitoring systems for businesses you need to be aware of the fact that there are numerous types of systems that you can choose from. But something that you need to keep in mind is that all of the systems are designed for the same purpose. And the main purpose of a video monitoring system is to help protect your place of business. When it comes to protecting your place of business you are going to need to use video monitoring systems on both the inside and the outside of your business to make sure that you are best protected. But something else that you need to think about is that these video monitoring systems are going to come in a wide price range because of the fact that they are more than just a video camera and video tape recording things over and over again, this is a high tech system that is designed to give your business some of the best protection available.
Here are some of the different types of video monitoring systems that businesses can use.
February 26, 2008
Tips for sending large files over email
Email is the preferred method of communication in today's technologically geared world. It's an easy and effective way to communicate personally and professionally, allowing people to send messages and files instantly. However, there are instance where someone may need to send a file, but the file is too large to send just as an email attachment. It is important, in such cases, to use some alternatives when sending a large file to another person. Here are a few tips for sending large files over email:
1. Remember the four megabyte limit
If a file is bigger than four megabytes, it shouldn't be sent as a regular email attachment. It is just too big and could cause some problems with not only the sender's computer, but the receiver's as well.Large files create a heavy load on the email network and the Internet server, which could affect how the network functions.They can definitely slow things down and make the network sluggish.
Protecting business computers from spyware
Spyware is annoying to most people. It is a software program that is installed on a computer to take partial control over a user's computer without consent. Spyware programs can collect personal information and can redirect web browser activity to accessing websites blindly. This is harmful to businesses since it can easily have a virus infect the entire company. Spyware can change computer settings, resulting in slower connection speeds, different home programs, and even loss of internet altogether. Since spyware stores cookies on your computer, it can be cluttered and eventually crash your computer.
A company named Direct Revenue makes spyware programs. Their programs track where you go on the internet and clutter your computer screen with pop-ups. While most businesses are annoyed by Direct Revenue and other spyware companies, their revenue is approximately $2 billion a year. Many respectable companies use spyware for advertising such as Delta Air Lines, Cingular Wireless and many others.
February 25, 2008
How to set up a wireless network
Many people are installing wireless networks as they enjoy the freedom to surf the net, send e-mail all while walking around the house. Laptops and other devices can connect to the network and people are no longer confined to one room. Wi-Fi network hubs range between 150 feet and 300 feet.
How do I set it up?
Make sure all your devices are able to talk to each other. Networking a Mac and a PC can be linked together with the proper equipment. Having a wireless access point and cable/DSL router is the starting point. You can usually find one devices that plugs into you cable or DSL modem. You can purchase devices from Linksys, D-Link, Netgear and others, starting at about $100; they often throw in a few Ethernet ports too, so you can connect a nearby printer or PC using a standard Ethernet cable.
February 23, 2008
Protecting your offices with technology
One thing that many people tend to think about when it comes to technology is how they can actually use technology to help protect their offices. And when it comes to protecting your office with technology many people tend to focus on how you can protect your computers, but they don't think of other ways that you can actually use technology to help protect your office and the things inside of it. Basically what this means is that you can protect your business from employee theft and stranger theft but this will actually be done in different ways.
Here is a look at some of the ways that you can protect your office with technology.
Title: The difference between laser and inkjet printing
Many people walk into a store looking at two different types of printers. A inkjet printer and a laser jet printer. The question that always comes to mind is, "what is the difference between a laser and inkjet printer?" Many people will prefer one type over the other, but it is all personal preference. Some of the main differences are listed below:
- Powdery toners are used in laser printers, in certain plain paper faxes, and in certain plain paper xerographic copiers.
- Liquid ink is used in inkjet printers and in inkjet copiers and faxes.
- "Laser Jet" is Hewlett Packard's name for its line of laser printers.
- "Deskjet", "Officejet", and "Designjet" are Hewlett Packard's names for its lines of inkjet printers and plotters.
- "Bubblejet" is Canon's name for its line of inkjet printers.
- If the paper coming from the printer, copier, or fax you are using is warm, the system probably uses powdery toner.
- If the ink on the paper is wet to the touch, the printer, copier, or fax you are using probably uses liquid inkjet ink.
- If your cartridge is about as wide as a sheet of paper (9 to 12 inches or 225 to 400 mm) or larger, the system probably uses powdery toner.
- If your cartridge is about 3 to 4 inches in size (75 to 100 mm) or smaller, your cartridge probably uses liquid inkjet ink.
The main thing to know is what you want to do with the printer? Are you using it in a work environment or personal use? Photo printing or document printing? To know which is best for you, let's look at both printers individually.
February 22, 2008
Title: Best software for pod cast and video cast editing
e new technology nowadays, how are you ever going to find the best software for pod cast and video cast editing? You need to write down what you would like your software to do. There are many types that allow you to record, mix, share, publish, store and listen to pod cast feeds.
Where to Start
The internet is a savvy tool for everyone. You can download free pod cast software that is needed to download feeds (pod cast broadcasting) onto a mobile device or personal computer.
February 21, 2008
Title: Best photo editing software
Searching for the best photo editing software isn't always an easy task. Most people you talk to will suggest Adobe Photoshop CS3, however if you are not a professional photographer and don't have an extra $700 lying around, you may want to look into other options.
Beginner Photo Editors
Starting at the basics, you will want a program that is easy to use. Typically, beginning programs include helpful wizards to walk users through common tasks, and they should include tutorials or handy on-screen tips for getting started. Most of these programs feature templates that you can build upon. Once you have progressed past this stage and want to design your own templates, it's time to move on to a more advanced editor. Typically these programs range from $50 to $150.
February 20, 2008
Phone recording devices to ensure better customer service
One thing that many people tend to think about when they hear the term [phone recording devices is that they are an invasion of privacy, and if you think about it in a way that is actually true and in many states it is against the law to use a phone recording device. But what you might not be aware of is the fact that in many states there is actually an exemption to this law, which makes it perfectly legal for businesses to use phone recording devices, but they still have to make sure that the other party is aware of the fact that the phone call is being recorded and that they have the option of not having it being recorded.
In fact many businesses actually use phone recording devices, hence why you hear so many pre recorded messages telling you that this phone call is being recorded for training purposes or something similar. In fact that is one of the best reasons for actually using a phone recording device. Basically what these businesses do is they record a variety of different phone calls, this way they can get different situations on tape to use. Once they have these phone calls recorded they can use it to help train new and old employees about how to handle certain types of phone calls. These taped phone calls can show old and new employees what is considered bad behavior in terms of customer service and what is the proper way to handle difficult customer or what is considered great customer service.
Multi-phone systems, considerations when choosing one
If you are in involved in running some kind of a business you have probably heard of multi-phone systems, some people actually just refer to them as multiple phone lines. But basically what this means is that you have a phone system that has a variety of phones that are connected to it for the same purpose. What this means is that you have different phone numbers that go into the same place of business, this is to help prevent your customers from getting a busy signal each time they call. But something else that you need to keep in mind when it comes to these types of phone systems is that they can also be used for a variety of purposes. Basically what this means is that they are newer then your extension phones so they can do more for your place of business, these phones basically have more than one use.
So know that you know what a multi-phone system is and that is mainly used in a place of business, although you can purchase one to use at your home. You are probably wondering how you go about picking out one of these phones. Something that you need to keep in mind is that there are a variety of different phones to choose from when it comes to multi-phone systems so you are going to need to do your research before you make your final decision to ensure that you are making the right choice for your place of business.
February 19, 2008
How an MP3 device can help your business
MP3, a digital encoding format, is rapidly taking over the marketplace. You have most likely heard of Apple iPOD, Microsoft Zune and other MP3 players. Commonly, MP3 devices are used for downloading music, video, or photo files. MP3 is an audio-specific format that was invented by a team of engineers at Phillips, CCETT (Centre commun d'études de télévision et télécommunications), IRT, AT&T-Bell Labs and Fraunhofer Society. Since the original design, it has been spread all over the world and is seen in practically every store.
How MP3 benefits business
MP3 has helped numerous businesses through creation of their own products to promote concerts, artists, television and many other genres. Many companies have partnered with MP3 to promote their companies in high profile events such as the Super Bowl.
February 18, 2008
Monitoring devices for business computers
When it comes to our business computers there are so many things that we need to worry about because of how many different epopel are going to be using them. Basically what this means is that not everybody who uses your business computers is going to be concerned with safety, nor will they be concerned with what they are doing to the computers. But luckily for the most part this is a rare occurrence and most people actually respect business computers just like they do their own. But just because they respect the computers that doesn't mean that they aren't going to do things on the computers that you don't approve of, such as downloading, surfing the internet, visiting certain websites, etc. So how do you make sure that your employees are following the guidelines that you have in place for your business computers.
One of the best ways to make sure that your employees are following the guidelines that you have in effect is to put some kind of a monitoring device on your computer. Basically this kind of device is known as internet monitoring software, but in fact it does more than just monitor what your employees are doing on the internet, it actually acts like a security system for the entire computer. Basically this means whether online or offline you will know every move that your employees are making on the computer, which helps to ensure that your business computers are not being abused.
Continue reading "Monitoring devices for business computers"February 17, 2008
Learning how to use new software, tips and tricks
While getting new software can be exciting because of the improvements and possibilities associated with it, new software can also be daunting and cause a lot of stress for those who are trying to learn how to use it.Learning how to use new software doesn't need to be scary or too difficult, especially with these tips and tricks:
1. Remember - it takes time to figure it out.
Don't expect to be an expert easily or without some study and practice. A new task or skill (as with any aspect of life, not just software) usually doesn't come completely naturally or becomes perfected without practice.
February 16, 2008
Infrastructure for wireless networks
For those of you who have absolutely no idea what an infrastructure is we are first going to explain infrastructure before we actually move on to wireless networks. To start with an infrastructure is basically the structural elements that support the framework for something. Basically what this actually means is that the infrastructure is the main things that provide the support or the capability for a specific structure. Basically what this means is that without these certain elements then the structure in question could not actually exist.
Now let's move on to wireless networks. For those of you who are unaware of what a wireless network is the first thing that you need to know is that a wireless network has to do with computers and computer equipment. But it is actually basically just what it sounds like a wireless network is a bunch of computers that are hooked up to a central location in your office, but this is actually accomplished without wires.
Infrastructure for wireless networks
For those of you who have absolutely no idea what an infrastructure is we are first going to explain infrastructure before we actually move on to wireless networks. To start with an infrastructure is basically the structural elements that support the framework for something. Basically what this actually means is that the infrastructure is the main things that provide the support or the capability for a specific structure. Basically what this means is that without these certain elements then the structure in question could not actually exist.
Now let's move on to wireless networks. For those of you who are unaware of what a wireless network is the first thing that you need to know is that a wireless network has to do with computers and computer equipment. But it is actually basically just what it sounds like a wireless network is a bunch of computers that are hooked up to a central location in your office, but this is actually accomplished without wires.
February 15, 2008
How to set up a website for your small business
In today's world, it almost as necessary for a business, no matter what size or industry, to have a website as it is to have a phone number. More and more, people are learning more about companies and doing business with them via the Internet. Business owners who recognize the power and necessity of a company website definitely have the advantage over those who don't. The key is to know how to set up a website for your small business, which can be done by following these basic guidelines.
The name of your site and its address is worth some extra consideration. These two things are not only the way you'll identify yourself on the Internet, but it's also how people will find you. You want to find a domain name that will lead customers or anyone that's interested to your site.Usually, a shorter domain name is easier to remember, but the key is to find something that sums up your website in a word or two.
February 14, 2008
How much storage space do you need on your business computers
Your company may have brand-new, top of the line computers, but if they don't have adequate storage space, your investment will be wasted.By understanding a few basics and options regarding computer memory, you will know how much storage space you need on your business computers.
Before deciding how much storage space your business computers need, it is a good idea to understand the different types of memory and have a knowledge of the way memory is measured. A gigabyte is a billion bytes, a megabyte is a million, and a kilobyte is a thousand. Today, most people measure a computer's total memory in gigabytes. However, it's important to know how many bytes are in a kilobyte and megabyte because most documents and projects are measured this way.So, depending on the workload on each computer, you can decide how much memory you'll need by how much is saved on them.
February 13, 2008
Title: Best programs for designing business graphics and logos
Many companies have gone through at least one or two logo changes over the years. When a company is first established, they typically find a graphic designer or consulting firm who will help them find the correct image for their company.
Starting from scratch
Typically business logos and graphics are first created in a drawing program. Having the logo converted to a scalable vector image allows for an all-around logo that can be used in any graphic design software. Using a scalable EPS graphic is best for commercial printing and the best choice for importing into most layout programs. Those programs are wonderful for creating letterhead, business cards, and other documents. Any format of vector imaging is perfect for resizing or converting the logo to anything without losing the quality of the image. If you are designing a logo for the web, it will require a conversion to a GIF or JPG format. Adobe Photoshop is always recommended for creating business graphics and logos, there is even a tool that allows you to convert the logo or graphic to GIF or JPG for the web.
February 12, 2008
Best projectors for business presentations
If you have ever had to do any kind of a presentation for your business you have probably already used some kind of a projector or perhaps you have even bought a projector for your businesses conference room. In either case you probably could have used some kind of help in deciding what the best projector was for your business presentations. In fact there actually isn't any one kind of projector that is better than other projectors, meaning one brand isn't going to be better than the next. When it comes to projectors what you are going to want to do is to look for certain key features that the projector has so that you can pick the best one for your business presentations.
Here are some tips to consider when picking the best projectors for business presentations.
February 11, 2008
Best programs for developing slide shows and presentations
If you are interested in creating slide shows or in creating some kind of presentation you might be wondering about the best programs that you can use to create these items. Many of us know that there are thousands of programs that we can choose from to make slide shows, create presentations, write a letter or make a card but the problem is trying to decide what programs are going to be the best. Unfortunately this is not a very easy question to answer. The reason that this question isn't very easy to answer is because what is the best program for you is probably not going to be the best program for somebody else. A lot of what goes into choosing the best program for developing slide shows and presentations is knowing what kind of slide shows and presentations you are going to be creating. Another factor that you are going to need to consider is your spending budget; the reason for this is that you can find a wide range of programs for a lot of different prices. But keep in mind that just because you spend a large amount of money on a program that doesn't mean it is going to be the best program available. In fact when it comes to choosing the best program for developing slide shows and presentations you are going to want to compare a variety of different kinds of programs and choose the one that best meets your needs.
Here is a look at some of the programs that you have to choose from for developing slide shows and presentations.
February 10, 2008
Title: Protecting business computers from adware
Adware or advertising-supported software is defined as a software package that automatically plays, displays, or downloads advertising material to a computer after the software is installed on it or while the application is being used. Typically adware is seen as advertising banners that can be seen either as a pop-up or a banner ad.
Like spyware, adware has been criticized for tracking a user's personal information. The problem many companies have with adware tracking information is that it is passed on to third parties without their knowledge or permission.
Noted privacy software expert Steve Gibson of Gibson Research explains: "Spyware is any software (that) employs a user's Internet connection in the background (the so-called 'backchannel') without their knowledge or explicit permission. Silent background use of an Internet 'backchannel' connection must be preceded by a complete and truthful disclosure of proposed backchannel usage, followed by the receipt of explicit, informed consent for such use. Any software communicating across the Internet absent of these elements is guilty of information theft and is properly and rightfully termed: Spyware."
How do I protect my business computers from adware?
Steve Gibson's corporation has created a OptOut a program to help protect your computers from adware and spyware.
February8, 2008
A look at whether your company should have Macs or PC's
Computers are an important part of any business, in any industry.Deciding which type of computer your company will use is something that requires some research. When it comes to choosing which will work better for your company, there are different things to consider. An effective way is to weigh the pros and cons of each. Here's a look at those aspects and whether your company should have Macs or PC's.
PC Pros
The PC is the most commonly used type of computer. Many people are familiar with them and how they work. Chances are someone you know can help you with technical problems, even help you fix, with a PC. That is a definite pro of the PC - help with your computer can be easily found.No need to find a specialist at a specific store when your computer goes down.There are more PC experts, demand isn't as high. This can save your company repair costs.