How to Run a Business: Part 3
Well, one way to run a business at least.
Over the past 18 months or so, there have been some fairly significant changes to the way we conduct business at MonkeyPuzzle Computers. These have led to more efficient ways of working and a more complete service to our clients.
In a series of blog posts, I would like to explain which technologies have made the most impact and demonstrate how they have improved the way we work.
A Smartphone (specifically not an iPhone)
Let me say at the outset that I have no desire to enter the fiercely contested waters of iPhone vs Android phone. Please read on, because that’s not what this post is about.
A smartphone is a common sight these days. Mobile phones have advanced to the stage where they now allow users access to email, the internet, office documents and are, in essence, mini-laptops. They allow users to stay in touch and conduct business while on the move.
And that’s the point. Using a Smartphone I can answer emails and contact clients when I am out of the office. It’s such a simple thing, but being able to respond to an email - even a simple yes or no - before returning to the office where myriad distractions await, means clients get swifter service.
All my emails are synced to the phone as are all my contacts, so I’m never without information I need. I can use the phone to access the internet from my laptop where there is no public wireless connection. For those who dabble, social media can be frequently updated via smartphone.
Of course, it is also a phone. I can call and be contacted while on the move. I can offer the courtesy of advance notice if I’m delayed for an appointment. I can continue to be in the office, when I’m out.
Now I will make a stand in the Apple vs Android debate. I currently use an Android phone and I’m not likely to change any time soon. Despite the glossy marketing and kudos of owning an iPhone, my iPhone-owning colleagues whisper of bad reception, poor battery life, software upgrades causing previously useful features to stop working, phones freezing, having to wait for the next iPhone version - a litany of minor annoyances. My Android phone does exactly what I want. All the time.
Software is upgraded simply, new features are added - my latest favourite being that my phone now acts as it’s own wireless hotspot - it has decent battery life, and it’s fast. Very fast. Best of all, I did do a hard reset of the phone the other day, then downloaded one app that had synced all my other apps to my PC, and I was up and running in 10 minutes.
I like my Android phone not because I care about brand names, but because it does just what it’s supposed to.