Technologies
The future is already here – it's just not evenly distributed.
—William Gibson, quoted in The Economist, December 4, 2003
The following technologies are recommended for you to consider how they may enhance the success of your business:
Blogging
Blogging addresses the need to easily publish information on a regular basis in different formats. It is important that it is easy to do updates since fresh quality content is what makes publishing information useful.
Cell phone / Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)
The cell phone market is growing in the direction of smart phones that can provide mobile voice and PDA data management. Ubiquitous connectivity for people to have access information for those times you are away from your office. My personal preference and expertise is the iPhone which has the advantages of a sophisticated touch interface and active application development.
Database
Record keeping efficiency and reporting are vastly improved when using the right type of databases and processes to collect key business data.
Getting Things Done (GTD)
More of a process than a technology per se but an important consideration for organizations interested in personal productivity and collaborative project work.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Why have you or your customers got lost or don't have location relevant information at your fingertips when this technology is becoming inexpensive and pervasive?
Instant Messaging and Twitter
Why wait when real time communication can be possible to get an answer or keep in touch right away?
Managed Services
Services managed in the Internet cloud can be a resource that is available anywhere there is Internet access, is always up to date, and always in sync.
Open Source Software
Software that is free, source code is available, and it can be modified to meet specific requirements where necessary.
Really Simple Syndication (RSS)
Really simple and efficient way of being informed when information of interest to you is changing.
Server and cloud computing
Rely on dedicated application servers for your production business either on premise or in the cloud.
Social Networking
Marketing by taking advantage of all the networking channels available to you.
Video Online
TV is transitioning to online video for short clips or longer videos that can be easily distributed.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
Save money and make use of integrated multimedia features by using voice over the Internet.
Web Conferencing
Have multimedia meetings without having to travel.
Wiki
Collaborate and engage customers and partners online by establishing a platform for crowd sourcing information.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Establish secure networks that can be quickly and conveniently be shared.