The right headset for business

In a regular office setting, headsets are often the ignored electronic device since everyone could just use the phone or use IM (instant messenger) to get in touch with an individual. But as technology is advancing and communication is getting easier with lesser cost, the use of VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) is gaining in importance. Since communication with the client is vital, a good headset should be in place to ensure client's loyalty as well as ease of acquiring new business partners.

Quality = Pricing

Quality headsets unfortunately, doesn't come cheap. Headsets with noise cancellation ability and better microphones will cost you. But this is just a small investment if you want to ensure that communication with your client is possible without interruption. You don't want your client to ask you to repeat what you said because the headsets are not working properly. You can't just blame technology if you lose your client.

Wireless vs. Wired

Wireless is always a good thing as this will lessen clutter in your workspace. But they are not the ideal headset. Wireless devices may save you from clutter but you become susceptible to other signals which could scramble the voice quality. If everyone is using wireless headsets, the possibility of signal scrambling especially if you are on a limited space is always there.

Single vs. Dual Ear

Although there are single ear headsets, it is highly recommended to have dual ear headsets. Aside from clarity, dual ear headsets will also prevent ear damage since noise and volume will be evenly distributed to both ears.

Bluetooth tips for businesses

Businesses should always find a way of boosting productivity through technology. Although humans can still improve in their productivity, technology will ease some of their tasks which will make them concentrate on more important functions. One of those technologies that should be harnessed by businesses is Bluetooth - a wireless data transfer protocol that will ease communication and other functions.

Most see Bluetooth as a device used mainly for mobile phone headsets. While Bluetooth is undoubtedly popular as a wireless headset device, there are other users for Bluetooth that has been proven efficient for businesses.

Ease in File Transfer

File transfer could always be done online or through LAN (Local Area Network) but when LAN is not available and data transfer online is very expensive. Bluetooth could become the protocol of choice. Bluetooth devices could transfer files without any problem. This is ideal when you are on the road and you need to transfer or receive files from a client or a business partner.

Access to Other Devices

Aside from using Bluetooth for file transfer, the device could also be used to connect to other devices without any cord. For example, you can have wireless keyboards and headsets in your computer for VOIP with the use of Bluetooth.

Security Concerns and Limitations

On the other hand, there are limitations that should be tackled constantly by Bluetooth users. The maximum transfer rate of Bluetooth is only at 1Mbps which is significantly lower. Bluetooth based attacks such as anonymous sending of documents with viruses should also be a point of concern. But these could be addressed as long as the user is conscious of other users and limiting access to recognized devices only.

The importance of web pages in business

Every company should need a good looking website. Your website is your face to the world and anything wrong with it will be criticized.

This is a little bit harsh for small businesses considering they are basically using free services in their websites (such as hosting) to properly inform their customers of what they do. They are practically saving money when they opt to use free tools and services on their websites.

But those who use free website hosting for their company are actually losing a lot more than saving. There are companies that offer web hosting for as little as $10 a month. For that amount, you can develop a good website and earn clients.

When you use paid web hosting, you will also have the advantage of having your domain. Companies or clients that want to work with you could easily remember your website. For example, a client will find it hard to remember a website named ultimatecleaners.multiply.com. But when you’re using only ultimatecleaners.com, your client can just type it in without having to remember the multiply part.

A free website is good for a personal blog or a personal website wherein you can share some pictures or updates. But a company, no matter how small it is, should always consider paid services for its website.

Linux OS: the ups and downs

Because of the disaster of Vista OS and the popularity of UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computers), Linux has been placed in a spotlight like never before. Different versions of Linux are being released and they offer the freedom of selecting the experience that you want for your computers and laptops.

If you are looking to slash costs in your business, you should consider using Linux as your OS in your computers. Linux will provide you Operating System and supporting applications that you need without having to shell out a single cent. Using Windows as an operating system in your computers is great in terms compatibility but every installation in a local gadget will cost you at least $300 for standard configuration and applications (Windows OS and Microsoft Office). A small business could be saving thousands of dollars if they use Linux as an OS.

Security is also optimal in Linux. Most of the viruses and spyware today are OS specific which means attacks are usually geared towards Windows computers. In fact, if you think there are viruses in your flash drives or any removable storage device, you just have to plug it in to a Linux based computer and open it. All the viruses will be gone and your storage device is as good as new.

The downside of Linux is that it will require more than just simple familiarity of computers. You need to have an expert so that your computer will be properly configured according to your need. Networking is also a little bit challenging as you need more than just simple networking configuration.

Linux has its ups and downs. Just make sure you have enough knowledge to handle this particular type of OS to ensure success.

BlackBerry Storm to compete with iPhone 3G

Almost every six months, something new from the mobile world comes out to challenge the powerful iPhone 3G. A few months ago, specs on the upcoming Nokia 5800 XpressMusic were released and different reviews from the actual usage were released in no time. The verdict: it’s good but it’s still not here.

On the other hand, the Blackberry Storm was just released and early reviews have been impressive that most have come to say that it’s a possible iPhone crusher. Available in US through Verizon and Vodafone in Europe, Blackberry Storm has something no other phone has: ClickThrough technology. This technology senses the pressure of the fingers and reacts accordingly – too light and it will just browse through and click is implemented with a little additional pressure. It also has a very impressive multimedia feature which includes 3.2 megapixel camera, support for a slew of video formats (including H.264) and ability to work in both GSM and CDMA.

If there’s one thing lacking in Blackberry Storm, it’s Wifi. This is a little bit unfortunate since Storm has such features that could easily stump the iPhone 3G. Without the Wifi, everything else seemed to be a lot difficult since you are not able to browse through the internet. Aside from the lack of Wifi, the Blackberry Storm is currently priced at $199 after the mail in rebates from Verizon – the same as the 8GB version of the iPhone 3G.

Although it might not knock out iPhone 3G, it still packs a powerful punch with its multimedia features and ability to handle GSM and CDMA (which makes unlocking a great possibility).