Control Computer Clutter In Kelowna

Here is a great article from Linda Andersson of Orgainzing Help
that speaks to computer clutter- Donald Robichaud

For many of us, the computer is now where clutter collects. Files, e-mail, programs, videos, music, games, the list goes on and on! While this may take up very little physical space in comparison to other clutter, is the information you keep truly accessible when you need it?

We all know the feeling of searching for something on the computer only to find that we named the file incorrectly, created two or three copies, or somehow put it in the wrong folder. Below are a few tips that can help you take control of computer clutter:

1. 1. Create files in your computer to match the paper filing system in your office.
   Use broad headings with obvious names. Think of the main folder as the "file drawer" then create subfolders from there.


2. Computer files can be categorized into "action," "reference" and "archive."


3. Do not get carried away and create too many levels or subfolders. In general, you should not build deeper than three subfolder levels.


4. Create a standard method for naming computer files. For example, letters can be named according to date and/or subject or recipient name. Pictures should be dated and filed by event or subject.


5. Try to limit the number of documents you keep in each folder. Create a new folder every time you accumulate more than 20 files. The fewer files you have in a folder, the faster a file can be found.


6. Remember to periodically review, purge, and refine.

If you would like to learn more about organizing your computer, managing e-mail, and using technology to your advantage, join us at Okanagan College on April 22. You can register online at http://www.organizinghelp.ca/newsletter/lt/t_go.php?i=30&e=Mjg1&l=http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/csreg.contact or

contact Okanagan College at (250) 862-5480.

Technology Enhances Business!!!!!

Spending money on technology is an investment, not a cost for business.
In the latest Microsoft TV commercial Sean Durfy, President and CEO of WestJet, is asked “how do you keep your vision alive?” He says with 7500 employees all over the US and Canada, “we can’t look at everybody’s eyes anymore. We now look at technology as a strategic driver of the company. If you don’t have that, you’re screwed brother”. Wise words!!!!

In today’s business climate, the business owner must understand technology and use it to their advantage to improve efficiencies and even expand operations. However, the use of technology should be balanced with your specific business needs.

Technology allows your business to reach a worldwide audience, yet many business owners take a very short-sighted look at their daily operations and how it affects their business model.
Let’s take a look at some of the basic technology tools to enhance your business activities, and that with a little planning, will take your business to the next level.

Your Computers: I recently purchased a Lenovo laptop and I am very pleased with its performance and it uses less energy than a desktop computer. Today's laptops are right on the heels of desktops when it comes to power and performance, and remember, you can’t beat the convenience. Being stuck in an airport for three hours in Vancouver can become a real pain, but with a laptop you are still connected and productive.

Backup Solutions: It always amazes me how business owners will spend thousands of dollars entertaining their clients but they won’t spend the money to back up their client’s data. Costs of hard drives and backup solutions are at an all time low, so protect your business. The losses of your core data will cripple your business for weeks and possibly end your relationship with your client.

Software: The most cost-effective time to buy software is at the time of your computer purchase. Microsoft and many other software providers offer great incentives and lower cost solutions at time of purchase, which in the long run will save you hundreds of dollars. The appropriate software will enhance your total operation.

Printing Solutions: Today there are many colour laser solutions that truly can enhance all your printed presentations. Company’s like Xerox and others offer an array of solutions for your business needs. I moved to a colour laser two years ago and recouped my investment in less than 4 months with better looking proposals and less time driving to the print shop.

Connectivity: I love the wireless age. It allows me to be mobile and stay in touch with my clients. I enjoy the convenience of sitting on my deck at home and being connected with my clients. I meet my clients at restaurants and coffee shops that offer a wireless service. For a few extra dollars a month your service provider will offer great bundle packages that will enhance your business, office, your home and your mobile experience which will take your business to the next level.

VOIP- (Voice over IP) Small- and medium-sized businesses have perhaps the most to gain from the explosion of new VOIP services. In one move, businesses can outsource their communications, doing away with clunky, on-site PBX equipment and reduce their monthly phone bills. For home business, Skype allows you to reach your clients throughout the world at a very low cost..... It’s free.

Training: So you have all this technology. Now what do you do? People always ask me “How did you learn all this technology?” I educated myself. Over the last twenty years I upgraded my skills by taking training courses on various programs like Microsoft Outlook. The investment has increased my knowledge, skills and competencies and helped to increase productivity and performance, while giving me more control over my decision-making process for my business.

Value added resellers - I like to browse the latest technology at the retail stores and ask about the products, but that is as far as I go. When I am making technology business decisions I like to engage the services of a Value Added Reseller, like Voda Computer Systems locally, and others who will have firsthand knowledge of the best solution for my business needs. They also have knowledge of the best ways to keep my equipment running efficiently and they offer support plans to keep it operating for years to come.

You may be a small or mid-sized business but that doesn’t mean that you have to operate the business as if you are back in the Stone Age.

Get with it.

The key to a successful business is to do it faster and better – so use Technology to “Build Your Business”.
-
Donald Robichaud
President FloodLight Consulting
250-768-9415 Kelowna, BC
http://www.floodlightconsulting.com/
http://donaldrobichaud.blogspot.com/
As posted on Castanet:

4th Annual Voda Comupter Systems Technology Showcase

2009 Technology Showcase Registration

Information Technology for Business"Ideas that Work"

May 12, 2009 - The Delta Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna, BC - 8:30am - 5:00pm

Presenters for 2009

IBM, Lenovo, DLink, HP ProCurve, Sonicwall, Data Domain, Cisco, Polycom, Fortinet

Booths:
IBM, Lenovo, DLink, HP ProCurve, Sonicwall, Data Domain, Cisco, Polycom, Avocent, Trend MicroSutus, Xerox, Barracuda, Toggle Networks, Fortinet

Click here for information on Manufacturers!

SPECIAL GUEST:Microsoft Specialist: Ian WatsonClick here for more info!

Keynote Speaker: Frank Morassutti from IBMClick here for more info!

To Resgister Click Here

Online networking and the relationship factor

This is a great article. One of my favourite newsletters is the one that I receive from the desk of Michael J. Hughes, Canada’s Networking Guru. Michael is a great friend from my days in Ottawa and we have continued our relationship. Michael is a great motivator and speaker and I recommend his monthly newsletters to all my clients and friends

Donald Robichaud
FloodLight Consulting -Build Your Business

From the desk of Michael J. Hughes, Canada’s Networking Guru.
I define networking as the process of creating and developing relationships from initial contact to ultimate outcome. My premise, and my exprience has been, is that the process is fundamentally unalterable. This means that networking online will never replace face-to-face contact, nor was it ever meant to. When the technology is used effectively, it can enhance the relationship process.

1. Accept reality. Because online networking often doesn’t include the all-important human contact factor, it can make relationship-building more difficult and complicated. Don’t misinterpret that acceptance of a connection equals a relationship. This is simply one small step towards building the relationship. You will often have to work harder to create relationships online because of this very fact.


2. Embrace the process. Relationships take time, require investment and need to be nurtured. Be prepared to invest in all three if you really want your online contacts to blossom. Keep thinking and working in terms of small steps that will build into future success for you and others.


3. Take responsibility. Many people are unsure of protocol when it comes to moving a relationship forward. Make it easy for them by suggesting a next step. Reduce their anxiety by adapting to their schedule or time line. Increase their level of comfort by allowing them to set the terms of contact. Every time you do this,you build trust as they will gain more appreciation for your sincerity and professionalism.


4. Emphasize context. An online connection occurs as a result of pre-determined context. This could be a common contact, similar interests, parallel career path or complementary needs. Use this seed as the basis for relationship growth. Relationship-building online is no different than at a networking event. In fact, it requires even more work in the early stages to overcome the inertia of non-human contact.


5. Build trust. Just about everyone today is cautious, even more when dealing with others online. Take this into consideration in your relationship-building mindset and methodology. Over-compensate when it comes to simple trust issues such as honoring commitments, disclosing agenda or sharing information. Consistenly demonstrate that others can depend on you to deliver on small promises and specific actions. This will have a huge impact in a short time.


6. Communicate effectively. This is one area that most online networkers miss. The best communicators focus less on communicating their own agenda and work harder to discover what others want and need. Taking this tact with online conversations will have others perceive you as more professional and more polished.


7. Think options. Relationships always carry outcomes. This is a simple fact of life. Take this perspective will help you keep investing in the relationships you make online until they yield results. Be prepared to allow online relationships to grow at their own pace, that way others will know you care about them and will open their minds, hearts and networks for you.

Michael J. Hughes is a recognized authority on utilizing networking as a business strategy. To find out more about him, or to have him present at your next meeting or conference, contact him at his web site at http://www.networkingforresults.com/.

Why do you need a marketing strategy?

Every day you run into people and businesses who can use your services.

Your aim is to market yourself effectively.

The key to business marketing is a simple low cost strategy that makes people know, like and trust your product and your company.

You need a marketing strategy for your face-to-face sales presentations, your brochures, sales letters and your website.

However, at FloodLight Consulting we believe that the most important reason for you to have a marketing strategy is that,it differentiates you from your competition and establishes your brand.

The stories you tell about who you are make you unique.The results your clients achieve with your services or products will establish you as a unique player in your field.

And that is what a FloodLight Marketing Strategy can help you do, to create a compelling stories that let the world know who you are and what you do.

Excellent marketing strategies don't scream, I WANT TO IMPRESS YOU.

They don't scream, BUY MY SERVICES NOW.

Rather, the gifted marketing strategy and storyteller takes the reader or listener on a journey.

And, if the marketing strategy is well constructed, at the end of the journey, we are going to be impressed.

We are going to be interested.

We are going to want to take the next step in the sales process.

And that is why the most successful marketers tell stories.

So, what's your marketing strategy?

If you don't have one...I'm sure FloodLight Consulting can help.

Why not give us a call , and we can discuss your specific needs?

Do you want to market your services and "Grow Your Business" — even in a down economy?

Click here for more information

Donald Robichaud

President

FloodLight Consulting

Build Your Business

250-768-415

http://www.floodlightconsulting.com/

http://donaldrobichaud.blogspot.com//