EBizInsider

This month, we’re going to look at six ways to increase your productivity by beefing up your technology. We’re all busy – so let’s dive right in.

1. Add a monitor or two. Every employee at Solid Cactus has at least two monitors. I can’t tell you how much this increases productivity. It allows you to stop switching between applications constantly. Operating with two windows open at the same time gives you increased fluidity and means you’ll be able to more efficiently multitask and your productivity will increase as a result.

2. Organize your passwords with RoboForm. As e-commerce leaders, you’re going to have multiple passwords you’ll need to remember – your customer database, your e-mail, your online store, your order management system – the list can become daunting. Using a utility such as Roboform Pro (http://roboform.ebizinsider.com) keeps track of your passwords on either your computer or a USB key that goes with you. Your passwords are stored in a secure database and are protected by a “master” password.

3. Get a Smart Phone. All the major wireless phone companies offer fancy phones with PDA capabilities that sync with your e-mail and calendar – from the Blackberry to the iPhone. You’re able to send and receive e-mail and browse the web. Got five or more family members or employees? Look into a group business/shared minutes plan. You don’t all have to be on the data/pda plan to get special family or corporate rates.

4. Add tethering. Before you run out and buy the iPhone, know that it does not allow tethering. Tethering is the ability to connect your wireless phone via a USB cable or Bluetooth to use the “mobile web” network as a modem. This usually costs between $15 and $20 a month extra. Several months back there was a car crash on one of the highways near my house. It was clear I was going to be stuck motionless in a long line of cars for more than an hour. I was able to break out the laptop, tether my phone and get an hour’s work done.

5. Reduce Distractions. One of the easiest ways to increase your productivity is to eliminate the annoying things that keep you from getting your work done. Invest in a quality spam filter like postini.com or move your e-mail hosting to Google Apps (or at least Gmail) to reduce spam. Consider using a third-party call center to manage order entry, order status, inquiries, etc. that may be distracting you from running your business. (More info on this at http://callcenter.solidcactus.com)

6. Draw on the experience of others. Being in business comes with risk. Avoid making mistakes that others have made. Post ideas on forums (such as the Yahoo Store Forums at http://ystoreforums.com or LinkedIn.com answers at http://link.solidcactus.com/linkedin.) eBiz

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