Jesse Langley | WindowsTalk.org

Mar

The Many Options for Online File Storage

It wasn’t that long ago that off-site file storage was an option only the largest companies could consider. But with the explosion of cloud computing, businesses of all sizes can benefit from having a secure backup of all their important files. Online file storage has even grown into the consumer market, so everyone now has an option for protecting their information from loss or destruction.

With the myriad of benefits of online file storage, it’s surprising that more people and businesses didn’t take advantage of it until recently. This type of file backup provides a quick and simple way to ensure that all important files are safe, with very little effort required on the part of the client. Online storage can protect data against hardware failure, malicious software and user mistakes, and can provide a working save point for people attempting complex calculations on your data. Since the backup files are stored off-site in multiple locations, your information is protected, even from physical disasters.

Basic/free/Web-based solutions

The growth of file backup’s infrastructure, paired with a plunge in the cost of storage, has allowed even individuals to take advantage of hands-off backup. Companies like Box.net, Zipcloud and Dropbox offer simple, secure backup solutions that you can set up and begin using in just minutes. Once you establish which file folders you want to secure, the program does the rest, allowing you to know your files are secure without having to remember to back them up. These services are often offered free of charge up to a certain amount of data, although some may charge you for bandwidth usage, so there is no reason for anyone to live without data protection.

Mid-grade

For businesses that need a more comprehensive solution than a free online backup can provide, a number of data storage providers offer a slightly higher grade of service. These services don’t offer a free solution, but in return they offer a slightly more comprehensive and feature-rich experience. Services like Mozy and Carbonite offer a number of advanced features, including incremental backups, managed encryption keys and multiple backup versions. There are even some enterprise-level solutions, like Amazon and Rackspace, that are scalable enough to compete in this space. As the cloud grows, the mid-market file storage options may disappear as larger players are able to use the cloud’s elasticity to compete in this market.

Enterprise level

For larger companies that generate massive amounts of data on a daily basis, a truly comprehensive online data storage solution is needed. A number of large companies, like Amazon, IBM, HP and Rackspace, offer data storage solutions that can handle the massive amount of information a large enterprise can produce. Some of these companies, like Rackspace, are even harnessing the power of the cloud to give businesses even more data backup options. Cloud backup allows businesses to only pay for the storage and bandwidth they actually use, and a worldwide CDN allows for quick access to those files when needed. In the case of Rackspace, the company also maintains and updates its API, allowing developers to get the most out of their code.

Whether you need one file backed up, or a million files a day, there is a solution out there that makes the process simple. As more and more people see the benefits of online file storage, expect the industry to experience some growth over the next few years, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that new players will come into the space. The world of online storage has pretty much everyone covered right now, from DropBox’s simple individual storage to Rackspace’s full-cloud enterprise solution, it’s just a matter of finding the company that matches your exact needs.

Categories Software, Technology
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Jan

E-Commerce Software Fuels Order Fulfillment Success

by Jesse Langley

E-Commerce software, once rudimentary venues that helped fledgling companies sell products and services via the ‘Net, have morphed into highly sophisticated vehicles for e-sellers. Along with highly accomplished shopping cart functions, high level sensitive information security protection, state-of-the-art hosting platforms, and order fulfillment services, cutting edge e-commerce software also offers cloud functions that protect all manner of data.

You might even want to use the cloud to host your site. There are now some e-commerce platforms that offer cloud hosting for those who want to “pay as you go” and save dedicated server space. In some cases, you can select a combination of cloud and more traditional managed hosting programs. Some services even allow your company to access a “private cloud” to securely manage your e-commerce site, integrate supply chains and streamline order fulfillment functions.

Should you employ multi-channel operations, there are equally sophisticated e-commerce platforms that offer the tools you need to coordinate all features of your business. As more e-sellers feel the pressure of thinner profit margins, product quality, pricing and order fulfillment become even more significant components.

How effective e-commerce platforms drive sales

The combination of outstanding e-commerce platforms and willing buyers helped online retailers experience a highly successful holiday shopping season. 2011 also recorded more than five $1 billion (yes, with a “b”), online sales days. Yet there is widespread concern that e-sellers must remain diligent with operational efficiency controls, superior supply chain management and high quality customer service.

While many e-retailers are becoming more concerned with their fiscal ability to make new investment in e-commerce platforms and more efficient website development, revenue and profit generation, as usual, will enhance or decrease this ability. The classic retailer mantra, “It’s the price you pay, not the price you charge,” still applies.

Saving money with savvy branding

However, the importance of successful branding has never been higher. While smaller e-sellers face challenges achieving the highest levels of branding success, e.g., Nordstrom, using the best e-commerce software, suppliers and order fulfillment services they can afford will help reach the revenue goals and profit margins they desire.

Those companies contemplating some budget tightening should do their homework. With branding, quality customer service, and order fulfillment occupying influential positions, cost cutting in these areas can be self-destructive. Similarly, your company needs to employ the most effective e-commerce software the budget permits. Cutting back on IT, call centers, order fulfillment or e-commerce platforms might dangerously affect revenue levels.

Creating a winning marketing combination

Feeling comfortable with every aspect of your business efficiency has never been more significant. Utilizing e-commerce software features will help you “ride the wave” of holiday season success into the New Year.

Should you be a bit uncomfortable with one or more of these crucial components upgrade them—do not shrink their budget levels. If you had a successful holiday shopping season, you simply cannot afford to intentionally support a decline in these functions, all of which contribute to your customer satisfaction.

Remember, these components must all integrate and function well. Think like a football coach. Assume you have a great quarterback, but no talented receivers, running backs or offensive line. Your quarterback (company) cannot perform well without an effective supporting cast.

Investing in the optimum e-commerce software, without quality products, efficient supply chains or professional order fulfillment services may fit budget constraints, but will not increase revenue or profitability. You need the full menu of features, working together, to achieve your goals and objectives.

Do you have any outside the box ideas that might help you achieve the success that you crave? Are you bullish on a 2012 continuation of e-commerce success? Are you pleased with your e-commerce software, supply chains and customer service? If you are, maintain your course. Should you have some concerns, invest in more efficient systems, people and services.

Categories Blogging, General, Software, Technology
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Jan

A Parent’s Guide to Buying a Laptop for their Student

by Jesse Langley

As college approaches, many students will need a laptop for classes. The laptop will become a constant companion: a repository for papers, a research tool and a source of entertainment or creative expression. Because of this, it’s important to find a laptop that balances the basics with the individual interests and needs of your child. Below are several factors to consider, along with specific recommendations you can take with you into the store or while browsing online.

Price

Depending on the other supplies your student needs for class, a new laptop could be the biggest purchase you make. When you are considering price you’ll also want to think about longevity—will your child be able to use this computer through college and beyond? You may save money getting a machine that can only handle typing a paper and checking email, but your student’s chosen path could easily require a new machine within two years, especially in art or engineering programs. Also consider your child’s track record and the odds that this computer may be lost, damaged or stolen in the first few months. Keep price in mind as you weigh the importance of all other factors. You can purchase a decent laptop for around $400.

Size

Here, you’re mostly thinking about portability. If your student is pursuing an online bachelor degree, he or she may prefer a large screen and high performance to an ultra-portable model. Other students may carry their computers with them to every class, so portability becomes more important. Laptops can range from under three pounds to over seven pounds; you’ll probably get the most value by landing somewhere in the middle.

Web and media capabilities

Almost every use of a laptop requires an Internet connection. Consider choosing a machine with a built-in wireless card; students can use an Ethernet cable to hook up directly, but if they plan to work outside of the library or in the park a good wireless card is essential. Also make sure the laptop has a DVD drive and a USB port—these are a must.

Memory and hard drive

Memory dictates how many programs can be running at once. For most students, multitasking is key, so you’ll want at least 256 megabytes. You can pay a little more and go up to 512 if you think it’s necessary. You might even look into DDR2 memory, which will use less battery life—it’s not available on all PCs, but might be worth the investment. The hard drive, on the other hand, handles actual storage. An English major may be able to store thousands of papers with 30 gigs of space where a graphic designer will be saving multiple versions of very large files and may need a bit more. If you aren’t sure, opt for a little less space. External hard drives are becoming increasingly affordable, and many files can be stored online.

Battery life

Both in the traditional setting and as part of an online bachelor degree, your student will need to use a laptop on the go. Battery life can be as long as four hours; balance that requirement with price and performance. A backup battery can be useful to extend usage time for the laptop.

These days, there’s a laptop available for every budget. Research different styles and manufacturers, and ask your student what will work best—with a little time and effort, you’ll be able to find the perfect laptop for your student’s college journey.

Categories Hardware, The Desktop Experience
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Nov

Working From Home With Your PC

by Jesse Langley

Teleconferencing is quickly catching on as employees attempt to avoid stand-still rush hour traffic and employers attempt to go green. With great flexibility comes great gadgetry. Unfortunately, many remote employees drop too much money on programs they don’t actually need.

Whether you’re setting up your first PC-based telecommuting office or trying to convince your boss to let you spend Fridays at home, check out our list of the best programs and software to get you through your work day.

onConference

Yes, you can technically use Skype to group chat and participate in a video conference. But with unreliable connections and limited usability, it’s not the most professional of tools for the home office. Instead, try a service like onConference, which will give you 24/7 assistance in case you or your callers have any issues.

The service charges you 19 cents per minute and per line, but it’s an expense you should be able to justify to your company. Unlike other services, though, it will only charge the person who is hosting. This is a perk for your clients who won’t end up paying a third party just for the privilege of speaking with you.

Google Docs

Google Docs has been the go-to for group collaboration. Take the same power home with you for your home office. It will let you work on the same document as a co-worker across the country. If you haven’t used Docs in a while, it’s worth a second look. They’ve added the options to create online forms, presentations (think a minimalistic PowerPoint), and even collections that let your organize projects.

Unlike the functionality of Dropbox, Google Docs lets you see changes being made in real-time. Dropbox is convenient for file sharing, but not for active collaboration. There’s a distinct difference, but far too often people try to get by on file sharing when they should be working together, simultaneously. Set up a Google Doc and some sort of chat program (Skype works well here) and you should be on your way to working as if you were on location.

Join.Me

Sometimes co-workers feel the need to peek over at each other’s screens to explain things. Working remotely doesn’t take this desire away magically. Luckily, join.me provides a pretty nice fix. You can share control of the screen so you can point things out and they can respond. It allows for up to 250 viewers, but it’s doubtful you’ll need more than five. You can set up join.me for meetings and for simple collaboration on projects that are too big for Google Docs to handle, such as when you’re using Creative Suite programs like PhotoShop.

Join.Me is free, but offers a paid version that’s really only necessary if the entire office is comprised of remote employees.

Jesse Langley lives near Chicago and is a frequent contributor here at WindowsTalk. He divides his time among work, writing and family life. He has a keen interest in blogging and social media and also writes for Professional Intern.

Categories General, Software
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Nov

Streamlining Business with Your PC

by Jesse Langley

A small business today can have just about every advantage large businesses have with some internet access and some great PC-friendly programs. You won’t have their huge budget, but loyalty card programs, warehouses full of your stock and excellent marketing programs are well within your grasp.

One of the biggest struggles small business owners face is warehouse storage options. If you’re a microbusiness owner just working on a hobby, you’ll likely be fine just keeping your wares in a second bedroom or even in your living room. Likely, though, larger small businesses will find themselves falling behind if they’re constantly making trips to the post office and spending time dealing with packaging and processing their goods.

Order fulfillment companies can easily be found online. Many of them allow you to manage your warehouse through their web pages, and they can even help you track what you need more and less of as the holidays approach. Companies like this help you harness the power of a large business’s quick response to shipping demands while maintaining the product line flexibility of a small business. The best part? You can do it all at your computer.

Many small business owners wish they could have a sophisticated loyalty program without having to flip through files and rolodexes filled with customers’ names. As always, the Internet has a solution. Foursquare, a simple smartphone app with over 10 million users, lets your customers check in at your location to receive specials and offers created and maintained by you. If you own a small coffee shop, you can use it like a frequent shopper and offer a free coffee on the user’s fifth check in or even bring in new customers by offering a free flavor shot with any beverage purchase.

Beyond bringing in and keeping customers, Foursquare will give merchants demographic information like the total check-ins over time, recent and frequent visitors, and even a gender breakdown and the time of day most people check in. They can also tell you how many people have shared their Foursquare check-ins that make it to other social networks.

Big businesses have professional designers to create flyers and marketing products for them. Luckily, so do you. Microsoft Word has an entire database of professionally designed advertisement pieces, including flyers, brochures, booklets and even business cards. Any sort of paper design you need can be created through Microsoft’s Office Suite. Be sure to follow the link to look for more templates online if you don’t find what you’re looking for from the selection saved within the program.

If your home printer just isn’t doing it for your business needs, try using Vista Print, an online printing service that will professionally print t-shirts, mugs, calendars, business cards, key chains and more. They specialize in microbusinesses, so they’re priced for orders of 50 instead of 5,000 like many other businesses related printing companies.

Whatever your needs are, chances are good you can find a solution with a few clicks of your mouse and some simple keystrokes. PCs and the internet are making it easier than ever for small businesses to compete in the big business market.

Jesse Langley lives near Chicago and is a frequent contributor here at WindowsTalk. He divides his time among work, writing and family life. He has a keen interest in blogging and social media and also writes for Professional Intern.

Categories General, Technology
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Oct

Three Free Programs Every Student Should Have

by Jesse Langley

College isn’t easy for students or computers. They’re both asked to handle more files, more photos and more threats than ever before. No need to panic, though. Three easy, free and reputable programs can make life easier whether you’re a freshman or a senior.

Microsoft Security Essentials
If you’re going to be downloading every file you come across on the internet, you’re going to need a good antivirus. While Norton Antivirus is great, it slows down most computers and is constantly badgering you with notifications and alerts. Free anti-viruses aren’t exactly trustworthy, and they’re less likely to be updated frequently than professional versions.

The solution? Microsoft Security Essentials. It’s completely free, and is sponsored by the Microsoft Malware Protection Center. The center houses Microsoft’s best threat detection employees who are all working hard to ensure PCs continue to run smoothly despite the looming threats on the internet. With all of that free, why wouldn’t you want to perform a simple download?
Once you have completed the set up process, set weekly reminders to you to update your software. Viruses change quickly, and your antivirus can’t keep up if you don’t do your part to keep it running.

Picasa Photo Editor
Whether you’re living in the dorms of a traditional college or taking online classes toward your associate degree, chances are good there will be a lot of memories you want to capture. When it comes time to organize and edit them, you could download a photo compiler and Photoshop. Or you could just download Picasa from Google. It takes about 30 seconds to download, and it will change your life, at least your 2-D life.
Picasa can edit photos with one touch of the iconic ‘I’m feeling lucky’ button. It will auto color correct, crop images and add filters or text. As if that isn’t enough, it also organizes your photos by folder or date and will upload albums to its online portal with another single click. Once your photos are online, you can add them to Google+, embed them with HTML code, embed them as a slideshow with different options, or share albums with different privacy settings. If you don’t need the photo editing capability, you can also use Picasa Web albums separately.

Dropbox
If you don’t already have it, download Dropbox now. Like, right now. Just let it start, and I’ll tell you why you need it while you wait.
Got it? Good. Dropbox is your best way to transfer files. You can share music, video and group projects with your friends and peers. If you find yourself burning CDs from friends, ask them just to drop the MP3 files into a new folder you share with them, and then you can grab the music from there.
Group projects are especially great since Dropbox creates transparency. Work on all of the documents in the folder, and your teammates will be able to see what you’ve done and vice versa. This will virtually eliminate that horrible feeling that over-achievers get when they realize the slacker of the group has done absolutely none of their part.
With three simple downloads, you’re ready for anything. You can ward off viruses, edit and share photos, and navigate group projects and social interactions.

Jesse Langley lives near Chicago. He divides his time among work, writing and family life. He has a keen interest in blogging and social media and also writes for Professional Intern.

Categories General, Software
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Oct

4 Ways to Use Your PC to Find a Job

by Jesse Langley

Whether you already have a job or you’re unemployed, chances are good you’re still applying places and keeping your options open. With the job market as it is, it’s important to utilize all of the tools at your disposal. Luckily, you have a Windows-enabled PC that you’re probably viewing this on right now. First of all, pat yourself on the back for making an excellent decision. Then, start your job search using these tools.

Brush up your résumé
Everyone knows that you need a great résumé to find a job. One of the easiest ways to get one, though, is sitting right on your PC. Microsoft Word has a great selection of fill-in-the-blank résumés that will look as good as a professionally resume if you follow a few guidelines.
First of all, choose your template wisely. If there’s any clip art at all on the page, pick a different one. You’re also going to look for an example that’s mostly black and white if not entirely colorless. And you want a simple design. The focus shouldn’t be on the graphics themselves (unless you’re a graphic designer, in which case you should be designing your résumé as if it were a piece of your portfolio). Finally, legibility is key. If there’s too much on one line and the eye can’t read it, just tab down and start a new line.

Build your portfolio
If your line of work requires a trail of papers, gather them up. Whether it’s support tickets you’ve filled out for interesting cases or reports you’ve done, they’ll be the building blocks of your portfolio. The main thing you’ll need, of course, are examples of your work. But you’ll also need a way to display them attractively. This is where Microsoft Publisher comes in. Publisher will allow you to make everything look uniform and appealing.
If you don’t have Publisher on your PC, you can use Microsoft PowerPoint. It has much of the same design flexibility as Publisher, so it’s a decent choice when you need to design things. If you have any certificates or online training, here’s a great place to include examples from them. Slip in any papers you’ve written or information about any project you’ve completed.

Post a website
Another great use for Microsoft Word is that it will let you publish your content straight to the web. When you’re job searching, any advantage you have could be enough to set you apart. One of the best ways to get that advantage is by starting a blog where you write about your industry. Be sure to not complain about clients or co-workers on it, though, as you’ll want to keep it upbeat and insightful. To create a website, visit WordPress or Blogger. From there, you can use one of their templates to set everything up. When you update it on a daily or weekly basis, you can simply hit “Publish as a Blog Post” under the file menu to send it straight to your site. Streamlining the process will hopefully make it easy enough for you to regularly maintain your blog.

Start a database
When you’re searching for a job through Monster or any of the online sites, trying to remember which jobs you’ve applied for already is sometimes a daunting task. Start a spreadsheet in Excel with the company name on Row A, the job position on Row B, the date on Row C and any notes you need to make in Row D. Consult the list and hit Ctl+F to search for a term any time you’re uncertain if you’ve applied somewhere or not. Remember that it’s not a bad thing to reapply places, but you don’t want to use different versions of your résumé or reapply on a nightly basis. There’s definitely a thick line between persistent and annoying, and you want to be in control of where you’re standing.

Jesse Langley lives near Chicago. He divides his time among work, writing and family life. He has a keen interest in blogging and social media and also writes for Professional Intern.

Categories General
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