iPad - the business case

When the iPad was first released, I was one of many who thought that, despite being a beautiful bit of kit, there was limited use for business. And to be fair, the entire marketing focus of the Apple machine is still pointing us at entertainment or educational based Apps.
My view changed dramatically recently though, when trying to find a good mobile solution for a customer who wanted anywhere access to their FileMaker database. We had already tried to synchronise data via exchange server out to their mobile phone (iPhone based) network of users with some success, but the data was limited to contact information and they really wanted to see job status and invoices etc. on their customer base. After a bit of digging I found a great little App called FM Touch available for both iPhone and iPad (take note FileMaker - one licence for both devices) and after a bit of testing on my iPhone produced a great working system for iPad that synchronizes across both wireless and 3G networks to the master database in the office.
Here is an example of just one of the screens. They are able to list out active and inactive jobs and drill down to the details of each one.

Having found this app, and of course buying an iPad to develop on (because now I had my business case) I also found a great little RDP client that enables me to link to my PC (and client machines too) straight from the iPad. I no longer have to take my laptop with me everywhere to be able to provide remote support.

To top it off, I splashed out on Keynote and a VGA adapter which means I'm now able to access data, provide support and present new ideas with a few swift finger movements.
If anyone out there needs a business case for buying an iPad then I hope this little insight will help.

Jargon Busting - Technology

Here at K-meson we take a different view of many over used "power words" that are flung around by many consultants. Here is our take on:
Technology 
n. pl. –gies 1. application of practical sciences to industry or commerce.
How much can technology help your business? The usual answer is a lot, but only if you get it right. Badly implemented technology can hinder your business more than it helps.
And just what technology do you need? Without a broad range of experience and knowledge at your disposal it is far too easy to be channeled down an inappropriate route by a well meaning supplier keen to sell you the latest product.
Talk to K-meson and we'll look at your business first and then match appropriate technology to help deliver your business aim. Mobile and handheld computing, home-working, storage solutions, Internet presence, intranets and extranets are just some of the areas of expertise that are on offer. The overriding principle is that advice from K-meson will have your best interests at heart and will not try to sell you something that you don't actually need.

Jargon Busting - Strategy

Here at K-meson we take a different view of many over used "power words" that are flung around by many consultants. Here is our take on:
Strategy 
n. pl. –gies 1. a long term plan for success, esp. in politics, business etc.
Having an effective IT strategy, that complements and supports a realistic business plan is key to getting the most from technology. All too often the targets for IT are set at unrealistic levels that either cost too much or do not really deliver a benefit to the business. Satisfying your team’s desire for the latest gadget won’t win you the business or cut your production costs. Training your people to get the most from your existing systems will.
K-meson can help you build a strategic approach to technology that doesn’t rely on unproven developments or expensive new hires and makes a rapid impact on your success. Services include:

• Drafting an IT strategy to support your business plan
• Reviewing current systems capacity against proposed business targets
• Planning and implementing systems upgrades in line with strategic targets

Jargon Busting - Manage

Here at K-meson we take a different view of many over used "power words" that are flung around by many consultants. Here is our take on:
Manage 
vb. (mainly tr.) 1. (also intr.) to be in charge (of); administer.
You may not have a dedicated IT Manager. If you do, they may have too much on their plate already. Whatever the case, without effective resources keeping tabs on your technology needs can quickly get out of hand. Spending money to fire fight is almost as bad as burning it and if things go wrong you could lose customers through an inability to respond to their needs.
K-meson can provide the extra input you need on a one-off or regular basis to ensure that systems are in place to monitor the effectiveness of your technology investment. Managing technical staff and suppliers is a particular strength so if you feel you need a tighter grip on your IT let us take a look at how we can help. We can offer:

• Interim management
• Regular retained input
• One-off project management

Jargon Busting - Challenge

Here at K-meson we take a different view of many over used "power words" that are flung around by many consultants. Here is our take on:
Challenge 
vb. (mainly tr) 1. make demands on; stimulate: this challenges his ingenuity
There is no doubt that buying into the latest technology can be expensive and the challenge for any organisation wanting to develop new systems is getting it right. That means clear business plans supported by good research and market intelligence; tight controls on development and capital costs; selecting the right systems and security layers for what you are providing; and, wherever possible, taking small steps to achieve the greater whole.
Of course, the first big step is figuring out exactly what the business needs. Front-end access for client orders or queries, back-end for electronic invoicing and/or payments, or both? And if the business wants these things, do the customers? Are they ready for it?
You need to answer these basic questions honestly to set you on the right path and, with a unique mix of business management experience coupled with broad technical knowledge, K-meson can help.

Jargon Busting - Advantage

Here at K-meson we take a different view of many over used "power words" that are flung around by many consultants. Here is our take on:
Advantage 
n. 1. (often foll. by over or of) a more favourable position; superiority.
Can technology give your business the edge? It isn't always the case. And throwing money at the latest systems just because your suppliers recommend them could cost you more than you bargained for.
The K-meson approach looks at the business need first, clearly identifying where technology can make a positive difference and outlining what else you will need to make things work. Many forget that the price of a new system can be just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to costs. Without effective training for example, money spent on a new application is often wasted.
By providing a clear picture of all the related costs of a project together with a detailed analysis of the business benefits, K-meson Consulting can provide you with all the tools you need to make the right decisions nd give your business a true advantage over your competitors.