What Should I do with my Old Computer Equipment?

In celebration of Earth Day, we felt it was only appropriate to address a question that we get quite often; what exactly can I do with my old computer equipment?

Your options essentially fall into two categories: repurposing the equipment within your organization or completely getting rid of it.  We’ve compiled a (not-exhaustive) list of options for when your computer, server, printers and other equipment become second in line to the latest and greatest.

Reminder:  Before washing your hands of your old computer equipment, remember to wipe all data from the device.  This protects your business and ensures your secure information doesn’t land in the wrong hands.  (Networking Solutions provides a range of data deletion services should you need assistance.)

Repurpose:  Some electronic equipment lends itself to serving another duty within your organization.  For example, an extra monitor can give you twice the display space.  An old server can be used for multiple things depending on the level of expertise of your internal team and the age of the other equipment you are using.  Options for old servers might include; using it for disk imaging, as a test server or even as a file/print server for a specific department.  These may sound like no small tasks, but if you’re budget-conscious (as most of us are!), our team of consultants and technicians can explain and weigh the costs and benefits of the various options for your old equipment.

Dispose:  E-waste poses a variety of problems including the sheer volume of discarded items and the harmful chemicals contaminating water and land.   There are responsible options that businesses and individuals can take.

• Re-sell:  Other employees may be interested in computers and other electronic devices for personal use at home.  Businesses frequently require more robust features than that of the typical home user, so offering these computers for a fraction of the price to employees may lessen the load of obsolete electronics in your office.

• Donate:  Goodwill Industries accepts all computer-related electronics (not TVs) from both businesses and individuals.  You can drop off electronic equipment at any location or drop-box, and donations are tax-deductible (don’t forget the receipt!).  If you are delivering a large amount of electronics, it is recommended that you call the Goodwill in your area to find out more about suggested drop-off locations and let them know when you might be arriving.

• Recycle:  Many manufacturers and electronic stores offer recycling programs including; Best Buy, Dell, Intel, Staples and Verizon.  Many communities also offer electronic disposal as part of the waste management or recycling programs (some for a fee).  For more information on where you can dispose of your electronic waste, visit earth911.com.

Finally, we are always here to help you experience more efficiency.  Feel free to give us a call to learn more about data deletion services and to dispose of your equipment for you.  To get in touch with any of our consultants, contact us at sales@networkingiowa.com.

Save Time With These 10 Keyboard Shortcuts!

We know your time is precious. That’s why we feel a responsibility to pass along any time-saving tricks we might have up our sleeves.  According to Networking Solutions Partner, Rod Ryen, shortcuts don’t just come in handy for application developers, shortcuts can also speed up activities in most programs including Word, Excel and Internet Explorer.  So, increase productivity by keeping your hands on the keyboard and get in the habit of using the top 10 keyboard shortcuts below (you can even print this handy reminder and hang it up!).

Meet Networking Solutions Technology Consultant, Bridget Davis

We recently had an opportunity to chat with Technology Consultant, Bridget Davis.  She shared thoughts on the IT industry, our firm’s differences and how her free-time activities feed her need for speed.

1.    Why IT and technology?  What brought you to this career and what do you like most about it?
I was drawn to this industry because of the inherent challenges it holds.  I’ve always been a perpetual learner and enjoy constant growth which I think is a good fit for this career.

2.    Why Networking Solutions?  What differentiates this firm for you?
For me, it’s really about our people.

#1- Partners: I believe the Leaders set the pace and level of expectations for client satisfaction at a Firm. I see our leaders as being hard-working, level-headed, reasonable and trench-men. By that, I mean that they do not lead from a corner office, but they lead from the trenches. They are excited to help clients, and are willing to make things “right” for the client.

#2- The Staff: I believe the people here are professional, team-oriented, experienced and sincere in wanting to make a positive impact for our clients. Another plus is that we have a large enough team that our clients can benefit from our pooled experiences to really make a positive difference for their organization.

3.    If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring with you one piece of technology, what would you bring and why?
I think a desalination water purifier or buck knife really seem like the most essential pieces of “technology” in that situation!

4.    What’s your favorite tech tip?
Free is not always “free.” It is true that some free software works fine. However, some doesn’t and can even be a security risk. When considering any Freeware, please do your research (or have us help you) and be mindful that sometimes you do “get what you pay for.”

5.    The tagline at Networking Solutions is “benefit from the experience.” Beyond your technology experience, tell us about some of your experiences outside the office.
I really enjoy riding motorcycles when I have the time. Right now I am focused on the skill of conquering corners.  I love the feeling I have when I am completely in sync with the motorcycle as a difficult corner or obstacle approaches. To know and trust that my motorcycle is behaving exactly the way I want it to, when I want it to, is very gratifying. That sensation is difficult to explain, but makes the difficult corner fun to navigate. I think this translates into my job because I like to look ahead and understand my client’s needs. As they experience difficulties with their network, I love to help them navigate the solutions and find the right one for them.

Our Experience: iPad Cases and Protectors

As you learned in a previous post, our sales team recently began using tablets as they are out in the field. As the tablets – and the covers that protect them – have been introduced gradually, our team has chosen the right cover for their unique needs. We hope you benefit from the experience of our team – read below for reviews and thoughts on each protector.

Matt’s Choice:  Incase – Book Jacket Case

Serious protection was important to Matt Hatting, technology consultant, as he is often traveling between locations.  He required a case that folds easily allowing for typing when needed.  He has been satisfied with the quality of the product but would like a keyboard and additional storage for business cards and other information.

Justin’s Choice:  iPad Smart Cover

Justin Smock, technician, was one of our earlier adaptors.  His case was bought during the iPad2 launch and is the first case that fit magnetically and was built to use the “Wake on open. Sleep on close” feature. He has been satisfied with this case as it does not add any bulk which was a convenience he sought.

Bridget’s Choice: rooCASE 3-n-1 Executive Portfolio

Bridget Davis, technology consultant, was looking for something that would be able to hold everything she needed, but also be a bit slimmer than the portfolio and paper she was hauling around pre-iPad. Her case meets her needs well with a professional look and a place to store business card.  Additionally, she enjoys a Velcro back that makes it easy to take the iPad out for the occasional game playing. The only thing missing is an additional pen/stylus holder so that there is the convenience of storing both a pen AND a stylus.

Mark’s Choice:  Book Jacket Select

Mark Oliver, technology consultant, was looking for something professional and leather. This case fit the bill and holds the iPad securely without any possibility of it slipping out. Mark likes that you can stand the iPad up at various angles thanks to the rubber stops inside the cover – especially when Skyping or doing other hands-free activities. This case was a bit expensive, but Mark is really happy with his selection – except for one wish list item – a place to keep a few business cards.

Dave’s Choice:  UNI Shoulder Bag

After searching high and low for a protector that met his requirements, Dave Wyant, technology consultant, decided what he was currently using was his best bet. He keeps his pens, brochures and business cards in his bag – along with his iPad. To protect just the touch screen, he uses invisibleSHEILD by ZAGG. This is a great screen protector with a lifetime replacement warranty.

While our team isn’t looking for something to use in rugged conditions, Otterbox offers the ultimate protection, however these do add a lot of bulk.

For questions about our experiences with technology or to learn more about what we offer clients, visit our website or email sales@networkingiowa.com.

Meet Networking Solutions Partner, Rod Ryen

We recently had an opportunity to talk with Partner, Rod Ryen.  We asked him a few questions about technology, our firm and why he doesn’t think he’d use technology on a deserted island.

1.    Why IT and technology?  What brought you to this career and what do you like most about it?
I started writing computer programs at a pretty young age; my dad was a computer programmer and I always found it very interesting. Prior to joining the IT world, I worked for a tool and die company where I was writing the programs which controlled various machines. During that time I also wrote several programs that increased efficiencies and made my job, well, easier. I knew then that I wanted to help other businesses in that same capacity.

2.    Why Networking Solutions?  What differentiates this firm for you?
For me, it has always come down to customer service.  Networking Solutions was started after we observed the reactive approach that competitors were taking with their customers.  We started this company with the idea that we were going to treat our customers the way they deserve to be treated. That philosophy is still our main focus today.

3.    If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring with you one piece of technology, what would you bring and why?
Well, the programmer inside me takes the logical route with this question and says that if I was stranded on a truly deserted island, there would be no cell-phone towers, no electricity, and ultimately, no technology.   But, if you’re asking which piece of technology I find most crucial, I would say my smart phone since it provides me connectivity. Connectivity to email, the Internet, and, of course, Angry Birds.

4.    What’s your favorite tech tip?
I don’t know that I have a single favorite tip, but I like to use technology to gain efficiencies.  As such, I encourage people to use keyboard shortcuts rather than navigating through menus. People are often surprised at how much more productive they can be by keeping their hands on the keyboard.

5.    The tagline at Networking Solutions is “benefit from the experience” beyond your technology experience; tell us about some of your experiences outside the office.
My experiences outside of the office – spending time outdoors and enjoying live music all with family and friends – really just give me a break from the day-to-day.  I love what I do so it doesn’t take too much extra energy for me to come in and get right into the zone.

iPad to the Rescue! A Look at My First Month Using an iPad

My life pre-iPad…  

I’ve come from the pen and paper mentality, and during sales calls and client meetings, I took various notes in a traditional notepad and then put those notes into an electronic format in our client database, typically later that day – a perfect example of double data entry.  Also, when in the field I’d often get client calls and e-mails on my smartphone.  I would take notes in my notepad and then call into the office or handle these items when I returned.  Working on a smartphone with a 4-inch screen and mini on-screen keyboard just isn’t enjoyable or very productive.  There had to be a more efficient way of handling notes and client needs while in the field.

iPad to the rescue!  

At first I was a little uncomfortable using the iPad because it challenged my pen and paper mentality.  The thought of going into a business with only some business cards and an iPad was a bit strange, and not having a pen on my person felt like leaving the house without my wallet.  After only a few client meetings, using the built-in Notes app on the iPad became second nature, and wow, has this been a good feeling.  At the end of meetings, I can instantly email notes to another person or even enter them into our web-based customer database.

You might be wondering, “How does he access the web-based database without a 3G enabled iPad?”  Well, that’s easy!  I enabled the wi-fi hotspot capability on my smartphone and tethered my iPad to that wireless network.   This saved me calling the office to get a quote or handling it at the end of the day.  It’s worth noting that if your employees are already using smartphones that are internet capable, it may not be necessary to purchase a tablet that is 3G-enabled.  This offers potential cost savings as you only pay for one data plan per employee instead of two.

What are some of the frustrations I’ve experienced with the iPad?  I’m accustomed to a full keyboard and tapping letters on the iPad screen still hasn’t become second nature, but I’m getting faster and more accurate.  With a little more daily use, I’m sure I will quickly feel more comfortable using it.  Plug-in keyboards are available, but that limits the portability of a tablet.  Further, since there are thousands of iPad apps, I’m sure I could find one that would allow me to speak my notes instead of typing.  Hmm, now I better do a search in the App Store.

After only a month of experiencing improved productivity with the iPad for daily business activities, I can’t imagine going without.  If you are on the fence regarding iPad usage for your organization, I suggest trying one yourself first to see how it performs.  After experimenting, you will be able to determine if you should roll it out to others within your organization.

Feel free to contact Networking Solutions if you’d like to discuss tablet integration within your business, we are here to help.

This article was written by Mark Oliver, Business Technology Consultant with Networking Solutions.  Find out more about Mark on our website.

Meet Networking Solutions Partner, Dan Roling

We got a few minutes with Dan Roling, Networking Solution Partner.  He shared with us his thoughts not just on technology but the things he couldn’t live without and what makes Networking Solutions unique.  Benefit from his experience here.

1.    Why IT and technology?  What brought you to this career and what do you like most about it?
I started out as a CPA and found that it was often hard to gauge customer satisfaction and see the results of your hard work when handing over a 1040, etc.  When I moved into the IT arena, I quickly realized how much I enjoyed helping customers solve their problems and seeing the results of my work on their faces.

2.    Why Networking Solutions?  What differentiates this firm for you?
Our people!  We have the best team of techs out there – top to bottom.  We have specialists in all areas and that team mentality is beneficial to our clients.

3.    If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring with you one piece of technology, what would you bring and why?
I would bring my laptop.  I live on that thing and I feel I could get everything done from it – including making calls!

4.    What’s your favorite tech tip?
I think it’s important for people to know that they can increase the security on their workstation by not running as administrator on their computer.  By doing this, you limit spyware and other potential threats.

5.    The tagline at Networking Solutions is “benefit from the experience.” Beyond your technology experience; tell us about some of your experiences outside the office.
I enjoy spending time outdoors.  Hunting and fishing and spending time with family helps to give me the energy to keep our clients’ technology issues at bay.